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ABORTION
Abortion may seem like the easiest way to deal with an unplanned pregnancy; however, abortion is not just a simple procedure. For many women, it is a life-changing event with significant physical, emotional, and spiritual/moral consequences. Most women who struggle with past abortions say they wish they had been told all of the facts before making their choice. As with any major decision, you will want to be well informed, which includes being informed about abortion methods and abortion risks.
Abortion Risks
Physical Risks. Some side effects may occur with induced (surgical) abortion. These include abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In most abortions, no serious complications occur. However, complications may happen in as many as 1 out of every 100 early abortions and 1 out of every 50 later abortions. Such complications may include: Heavy bleeding, infection, incomplete abortion, allergic reaction to drugs, tearing of the cervix, scarring of the uterine lining, perforation of the uterus, damage to internal organs, death (rare, less than 20 cases per year).
Effect on Future Pregnancy. In rare cases, there can be infection or tearing or other damage to the cervix or uterus. If this occurs, it can cause miscarriage in future wanted pregnancies, and can also affect a woman's ability to become pregnant later. The risk of miscarriage is greater for women who abort their first pregnancy.
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Breast Cancer. Medical experts are still researching and debating the linkage between abortion and breast cancer. A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found: “Among women who had been pregnant at least once, the risk of breast cancer in those who had experienced an induced abortion was 50% higher than among other women.” Here are some important facts: 1) Carrying a pregnancy to full term gives protection against breast cancer that cannot be gained if abortion is chosen. 2) Abortion causes a sudden drop in estrogen levels that may make breast cancer cells more susceptible to cancer.
Medical/Chemical Abortion. The risks of chemical abortion (RU486 and M&M) include heavy bleeding, hemorrhage, severe cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a high risk of fetal deformities if abortion fails, or death. The abortion may complete anytime or anywhere and may take 9-14 days. If it fails, surgical abortion is necessary.
Emotional Impact. Some women experience strong negative emotions after abortion. Sometimes this occurs within days and sometimes it happens after many years. This psychological response is known as Post Abortion Stress (PAS). Several factors that impact the likelihood of PAS include: the woman's age, the abortion circumstances, the stage of pregnancy at which the abortion occurs, and the woman's religious beliefs.
PAS symptoms:
• Guilt
• Anger
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Anniversary grief
• Flashbacks of abortion
• Sexual dysfunction
• Relationship problems
• Eating disorders
• Alcohol and drug abuse
• Psychological reactions
Spiritual/Moral Consequences.
People have different understandings of God. Whatever your present beliefs may be, there is a spiritual side to abortion that deserves to be considered. Having an abortion may affect more than just your body and your mind—it may have an impact on your relationship with God. What is God's desire for you in this situation? How does God see your unborn child? These are important questions to consider.
Links:
http://standupgirl.com/index.html
http://www.gravityteen.com
http://www.optionline.org
Ultimately, you have the responsibility and legal right to make the decision about your pregnancy. It is important for you to know that though your parents, relatives, and baby’s father may care about you, no one can force you to get an abortion. Real empowerment comes when you take the time to find the inner strength and resources you need to make an informed decision about your pregnancy based on accurate and factual information. The choice you make is for a lifetime and deserves careful thought and consideration. CareNet is here to help you explore your pregnancy option sand other concerns.
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