Effects of Abortion

Physical Risks of Abortion

It is important to consider the physical effects abortion can have. See potential side effects and risks of medical and surgical abortion below.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Medical Abortion include:

• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by a surgical abortion
• Undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Abdominal pain
• Severe cramping
• Possible life-threatening Infection
• Fever and chills

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Surgical Abortion Include:

• Damage to the uterus or cervix
• Uterine perforation 
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
• Scarring of the inside of the uterus
• Reaction to the medicines or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
• Not removing all of the pregnancy tissue which may require another procedure

Emotional Effects of Abortion

If you are considering an abortion, you may be wondering not only about the physical effects of abortion but also the emotional effects. It’s normal to feel emotional during and after an abortion; you are, after all, making a big life decision. It’s normal to feel sadness, grief, guilt, or even relief. These feelings can change from woman to woman.

If family help and support are not available to you, talking with one of our options counselors before having an abortion can help you better understand your decision.

Women report a range of emotions after an abortion. For some women, these emotions may appear immediately after an abortion or gradually over a longer period of time.

• Depression
• Thoughts of Suicide
• Feelings of Grief
• Anxiety
• Lowered Self-Esteem
• Regret
• Sexual Dysfunction
• Avoidance of Emotional Attachment
• Flashbacks
• Substance Abuse

Remember, it is a woman’s right to be fully informed by her doctor prior to any procedure. A woman should be encouraged to ask questions.

Our center offers peer counseling and accurate information about all pregnancy options. If you are considering abortion, your first step is a no-cost pre-abortion options counseling. We never financially benefit from your decision and can discuss your options with absolutely no pressure. 

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. This center does not offer abortion services or abortion referrals.

Support After Abortion

At Mosaic we recognize that women may experience unresolved feelings following an abortion. These feelings may surface right away or may not appear until years later. Grief following an abortion is rarely discussed or acknowledged, which often makes it harder to verbalize unresolved feelings.

Through our post-abortion support, many women have been deeply changed for the better. Mosaic’s group program provides a safe and confidential environment for women to speak openly about their past abortions with others who share similar experiences. The purpose of the groups is to offer a progressive pathway to healing and restoration. All women are welcome.