Immediate Physical Risks
Abortion carries the risk of significant complications such as bleeding, infection and damage to organs. Serious medical complications occur infrequently in early abortions, but increase with later abortions. 26 There is evidence that induced abortion can be associated with significant loss of both emotional and physical health long term. 35 Getting complete information on the risks associated with abortion is limited due to incomplete reporting and the lack of record-keeping linking abortions to complications. The information that is available reports the following risks:
Long Term Physical Risks
Finding out the real risks associated with abortion is difficult due to incomplete reporting of complications and scientific bias, yet you should be equipped to be able to give full informed consent before going through a procedure or taking medicine that could have long-term effects on your health. 36, 42 Consider the following as you make your decision:
Psychological / Emotional Impact
Following abortion, many women experience initial relief. The perceived crisis is over and life returns to normal. For many women, however, the crisis isn’t over. Months and even years later, significant problems develop. There is evidence that abortion is associated with decrease in long-term emotional and physical health. 35, 55
The bottom line is that the scientific evidence indicates that abortion is more likely to be associated with negative psychological outcomes when compared to miscarriage or carrying an unintended pregnancy to term. 62, 64, 69, 70, 71
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, Gateway Women’s Care offers confidential, compassionate support groups designed to help women work through these feelings. You are not alone.
Psychological / Emotional Impact – MEN
Abortion is not just a women’s issue. For men who are staring abortion in the face, it is not a decision to be made lightly or without considering the possible consequences. Gateway Women’s Care has a trained, professional male counselor on staff that is available to help you consider all the options and make a decision that is best for you, both in the short and long term.
Men involved in an abortion can experience long-term, life-altering consequences. If you have been involved in an abortion, then Gateway Gateway Women’s Care is here to help. Post-abortion support for men is provided by trained staff, and we ensure your total confidentiality.
Relational Impact
Many couples choose abortion believing it will preserve their relationship. Research on this topic reveals just the opposite. Couples who choose induced abortion are at increased risk for relationship problems. 72
Women experiencing lack of support and pressure to abort from their parents were more likely to choose abortion. 73
Spiritual Consequences
People have different understandings of God. Whatever your present beliefs may be, having an abortion may affect more than just your body and your mind – for many, there is a spiritual side to abortion that deserves consideration.
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Gateway Women’s Care provides one-on-one counseling, support and accurate information about all pregnancy options. We do not, however, provide or refer abortion services.