Will having an abortion (or more than one) hurt a woman’s chances of having children in the future? The short answer is yes, it might. Complications that can arise from induced abortion, such as infection and damage to the uterus, are a main cause of future fertility risk to women. There are other factors and concerns as well.
Abortion Complications
In the case of medical abortion (when a woman takes the abortion pill), the risks for complications are increased in women with these pre-existing conditions: have a high risk of uterine rupture; an intrauterine device (IUD) in place; uncontrolled high blood pressure; diabetes, certain heart or blood vessel diseases; severe liver, kidney or lung disease; take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications; or smoke heavily.
According to a report issued by The Global Library of Women’s Medicine, first-trimester surgical abortion by dilation and curettage (D&C) “can result in uterine synechiae (or Asherman’s Syndrome), which increases the risk of subsequent mid-trimester spontaneous abortions and low birthweight deliveries.” Incompetent cervix is also a preterm birth risk associated with surgical abortion. A study cited in the Medical Journal of Australia reported, “Symptoms related to cervical incompetence were found among 75% of women who undergo forced dilation for abortion.”
STDs Can Affect Your Future Fertility
Having a sexually transmitted disease (STD) when having an abortion also can complicate future pregnancies. In another report cited by Medicine, “If the abortion is infected or complicated by pre-existing and non-treated STDs, risks of secondary infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and fetal loss increase.” Studies have consistently shown that induced abortion with an untreated STD can increase the probability of subsequent preterm delivery.
Call True Care for an Appointment
True Care can help you if you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are considering abortion. During your free appointment, our nurses will not only run a pregnancy test to determine if you truly are pregnant, but they will also provide STD testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, very common STDs in Natrona County. If you test positive for an STD, our nurses will also treat you – again at no cost to you. Take care of your future fertility – contact True Care today for your free appointment.
Call our Helpline at 307-215-9684. Your future sexual health may depend on the decision you make today.