Abortion Risks

You matter. Know the facts.

Abortion Risks

You matter. Know the facts.

Understanding Abortion Procedures and Their Potential Risks

Before undergoing any elective procedure, it is essential to be informed about possible impacts on your health and well-being. Risks and side effects can vary depending on the type of procedure and individual circumstances.1,4

Potential Risks of the Abortion Pill (Medication Abortion)

Medication abortion (also known as the abortion pill) may have potential risks, including:³
  • Sustained fever
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Prolonged heavy bleeding or fainting
  • General malaise, including:
    • Weakness
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea or discomfort
  • Symptoms sometimes accompanied by fever
  • Potential Risks of In-Clinic Abortion Procedures

    In-clinic abortion procedures, like any medical procedure, carry potential risks such as:1, 4
    • Heavy bleeding
    • Incomplete abortion requiring further medical intervention
    • Infection
    • Damage to surrounding organs
    • Embolism (blood clot, air bubble, or fatty deposit blocking a blood vessel)
    • Complications related to anesthesia
    • Rh sensitization
    • In rare cases, severe complications, including fatal outcomes1
    The risks tend to increase with later-term procedures. A licensed medical professional can provide more details about specific procedures and their associated risks.

    Future Considerations

    If you experience physical symptoms or emotional distress, support is available. You are not alone. Call or text 817-753-6222 to seek help. If you ever experience severe symptoms or feel your health is at risk, seek emergency medical care right away. 

    From a medical perspective, most women can become pregnant again after an abortion. However, research suggests there may be an increased risk of complications in future pregnancies, such as:² 

    • Preterm birth 
    • Low birth weight 
    • Placenta previa 

    Support and medically accurate information are available for those who wish to discuss both physical recovery and emotional well-being after an abortion.

    Abortion Pill Reversal

    If you have taken the first dose of the abortion pill and have concerns about continuing, it may be possible to attempt reversal. Time is a critical factor. Contact the Abortion Pill Reversal Hotline at 877-558-0333 or consult an OB provider as soon as possible. 

    You may also contact Pregnancy Help 4 U, for information on pregnancy options, resources, and support.

    1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductive-health/data-statistics/abortion-surveillance-findings-reports.html. Abortion Surveillance—United States. 
    2. Mayo Clinic. Elective abortion: Does it affect subsequent pregnancies? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551 

    3. Cleveland Clinic. Medical abortion: Risks and recovery. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion

    Abortion is currently banned in the state of Texas except to preserve the life of the pregnant woman, and in cases where the pregnancy poses a serious risk of substantial impairment of a major bodily function.

    This does not affect care for miscarriage or ectopic pregnancies. A woman who obtains an abortion cannot be held criminally or civilly liable. It is illegal to ship abortion inducing drugs into the state of Texas. The FDA does not recommend buying the abortion pill online as it may bypass important safeguards.

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