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Abortion Risks

The impact of abortion on the body of a woman is severe and almost always negative. Induced abortion is the premature, willful, and violent penetration of a closed and safeguarded system, a system in which nearly every cell, tissue and organ of the reproductive system has been specially transformed and activated to carry out the function of sustaining and nourishing a developing child. Violating the integrity of that system can lead to serious complications. Physical problems range from hemorrhage and infection to sterility and even death. Psychological effects range from depression and mental trauma to divorce and even suicide. Infection and bleeding followed by an abortion may eventually lead to a hysterectomy.


Physical risks of Abortion

  • Breast Cancer. The risk of breast cancer almost doubles after one abortion, and rises even further with two or more abortions.
  • Cervical Cancer. Women who have had one abortion face a 2.3 relative risk of cervical cancer, compared to women who have never had an abortion.
  • Placenta Previa. Abortion increases the risk of placenta previa in later pregnancies (a life-threatening condition for both the mother and her wanted pregnancy.)
  • Immediate Complications. Approximately 10 percent of women undergoing elective abortion will suffer immediate complications of which approximately one-fifth (2 percent) are considered life-threatening.

    • Emotional risks

    Many women rationalize the need for an abortion, repressing any initial feelings of guilt. As a result, emotional reactions to abortion are delayed, sometimes for as long as five to 10 years.

  • Sad mood
  • Sudden and uncontrollable crying episodes
  • Deterioration of self-concept
  • Sleep, appetite and sexual disturbances
  • Reduced motivation
  • Disruption in interpersonal relationships
  • Extreme guilt and anxiety
  • Psychological "numbing"
  • Depression and thoughts of suicide

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