The most common abortion risks include infection, mental trauma, and uterine scarring. Other less common abortion risks include uterine perforation, hemorrhage, and in rare instances death. In most cases, if performed correctly, abortions are considered fairly safe, especially if performed during the first trimester.
Perforation of the uterus is caused by a penetration of the uterus by one or more pieces of surgical equipment. This can sometimes cause damage to other organs, which could result in the need for additional surgeries. Older women are considered at higher risk for uterine perforation because their uterine lining is usually thinner. Cervical damage is another possible risk associated with abortion. Like perforation, this is also generally caused by instrument abrasion.
Heavy bleeding and vaginal hemorrhage are two other abortion risks. Though heavy bleeding is common, hemorrhage is rare. Women should let their doctor know if they have been taking blood thinners or aspirin because medications such as these can sometimes contribute to both heavy bleeding and hemorrhage.
In some cases, women may be administered anesthesia during their abortion. Depending on the type of anesthesia given, some risk factors could apply, including lowered blood pressure and pulse rate and allergic reactions. Sometimes heart problems or other underlying health conditions can make anesthesia more dangerous.
Though it is considered rare, abortions may sometimes be incomplete. When this occurs, part of the fetus or placenta is left inside the uterus. This can result in a very dangerous toxic condition and may require emergency medical assistance. Some of the most common symptoms of an incomplete abortion include fever and severe cramping.
Of all the abortion risks, infection is considered the most common. As with any surgical procedure, infections can be contracted in a variety of ways. Most of the time, infection is caused by the use of surgical equipment that has not been properly sterilized. Some common symptoms of infection include fever, body aches, and excessive bleeding.
Some of the more complex abortion risks involve the mental health of the patient. Some women may suffer prolonged periods of depression after having an abortion. In many cases, depression may be a product of hormonal imbalances that can occur following the termination of a pregnancy. Many clinics offer counseling prior to performing abortions so that patients will be well prepared for the procedure, both with an understanding of how it is performed and to evaluate their decision to have an abortion.