Abortion Information

Abortion Risks

:: Consider the Risks of Abortion

Side effects may occur with induced abortion, whether surgical or by pill. These include abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.  Abortion also carries the risk of significant complications such as bleeding, infection, and damage to organs.  Serious complications occur in less than 1 out of 100 early abortions and in about 1 out of every 50 later abortions. Complications may include:

• Heavy Bleeding (Possible risk with surgical abortion or RU-486.)
• Infection
• Incomplete Abortion
• Sepsis (total body infection) – (Possible complication from RU-486.)
• Complications from General Anesthesia
• Damage to the Cervix
• Scarring of the Uterine Lining
• Perforation of the Uterus
• Damage to Internal Organs -
• Death - This complication is rare, but is real.

:: Consider Other Risks of Abortion

Abortion and Preterm Birth

Women who undergo one or more induced abortions carry a significantly increased risk of delivering prematurely in the future. Premature delivery is associated with higher rates of cerebral palsy, as well as other complications of prematurity (brain, respiratory, bowel, and eye problems).

Emotional and Psychological Impact

There is evidence that abortion is associated with a decrease in both emotional and physical health.  For some women these negative emotions may be very strong, and can appear within days or after many years.  This psychological response is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder.  Some of the symptoms are:

• Eating disorders
• Relationship problems
• Guilt
• Depression
• Flashbacks of abortion
• Suicidal thoughts
• Sexual dysfunction
• Alcohol and drug abuse

Spiritual Consequences

People have different understandings of God. Whatever your present beliefs may be, there is a spiritual side to abortion that deserves to be considered. Having an abortion may affect more than just your body and your mind -- it may have an impact on your relationship with God. What is God's desire for you in this situation? How does God see you and your unborn child? These are important questions to consider.

:: Help Is Available

Facing an unexpected pregnancy can seem overwhelming. That is why knowing where to go for help is important. Talk to someone you can trust - your partner, your parents, a pastor, a priest or perhaps a good friend. Caring people at Care Net Pregnancy Center are also available to help you through this difficult time.

Call us 24/7 at 608-259-1605 or 1-800-395-HELP.

Care Net offers peer counseling and accurate information about your pregnancy options; however, we do not offer or refer for abortion services.

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. 

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Source:  “Abortion Risks – Risk of Abortion Procedures,” OptionLine, http://www.optionline.org/abortion.html