At GA Wellness, we understand that making a decision about your pregnancy can be challenging. We want you to have accurate information about all your options, including abortion.
The risks associated with abortions vary depending on the type of abortion procedure (medication abortion or surgical abortion) and how far along you are in your pregnancy. It's important to have an open and honest conversation with your healthcare provider to discuss these risks in detail based on your individual situation.
Heavy Bleeding
Bleeding is common after both medication and surgical abortions. However, some women experience heavier bleeding than expected. This might involve passing large blood clots or needing to change pads or tampons every hour for several hours. While rare, excessive bleeding can sometimes require medical intervention, including a blood transfusion.
It's important to monitor your bleeding closely after an abortion. If you're soaking through two or more pads or tampons per hour for two hours in a row, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Infection
Infection is another potential risk, although it is uncommon with proper medical care. Infections can occur in the uterus, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic organs. Signs of infection include fever, chills, lower abdominal pain, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
If you experience any of these symptoms after an abortion, seek medical attention immediately. An infection left for too long could result in serious damage or even death.
Incomplete Abortion
Sometimes, with the abortion pill, the pregnancy may not be completely terminated. This is called an incomplete abortion. It can lead to ongoing bleeding or infection. Surgical abortion also has a small risk of incomplete abortion, which could occur if some pregnancy tissue is left behind in the uterus.
An ultrasound can confirm whether the abortion is complete. If it is incomplete, further medical intervention may be required, such as a repeat medication abortion or a surgical procedure like a D&C (dilation and curettage).
Cervical Injury
During an abortion, the cervix may be injured or torn. This is generally minor and heals quickly. In rare cases, more significant tears may require stitches. While a cervical injury is more common in a surgical abortion, it can happen in a medical abortion as well.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
It's important to acknowledge that abortion can have emotional and psychological effects. Some women experience a range of feelings including relief, sadness, guilt, or regret.
These feelings are normal and there are resources available to support you. Talking to a counselor, joining a support group, or connecting with trusted friends and family can be helpful in processing these emotions.
We want to remind everyone that receiving care for an abortion related injury or side effect is legal in all 50 states, no matter the abortion laws of that state. If you have been injured by an abortion or are experiencing complications, seeking medical attention is encouraged and strongly recommended. It is also important you follow all medical advice after receiving an abortion, such as using pads instead of tampons, abstaining from sex for some time and getting adequate rest.
At GA Wellness, we’re here to provide compassionate support and accurate information as you make decisions about your pregnancy. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns.
