As is the case with many other hotly argued social and political issues, it can be difficult to get past the ideological rhetoric and propaganda from both sides of this question. A person’s religious, social, and political beliefs tend to color their perceptions of a question like this. However, even without directly addressing the question of abortion in moral or political terms, there are some things that we should be aware of.

In general, it is safe to say that abortion can affect future fertility. It does not always, and many women who have abortions do not have any long-term effects in the area of fertility. Research is contradictory as it relates to how often or how many women who have had an abortion experience fertility problems in the future, however. Some groups estimate that as many as 25% of women who have abortions will have fertility problems in the future, while other groups put the number at less than 1%.

Here are some ways that abortion can affect fertility. If the abortion procedure involves overzealous curettage, the uterine lining can be damaged, leading to infertility. Some studies suggest that abortion leads to an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, as well. In addition, there seems to be an increased risk for cervical cancer among women who have had either an abortion or a miscarriage. The same holds true for future miscarriages; if you have a pregnancy terminated, whether by miscarriage or by abortion, you are more likely to have a miscarriage again in the future.

One other way that an abortion may affect fertility is in the area of infection. Just as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection with abortion. An infection in a woman’s reproductive system can lead to future infertility. In the days before abortion was legal, the risk of infection was probably higher due to less sanitary and sterile conditions; however it remains a potential problem.

If you are experiencing problems with infertility, it is probably best to consult with your health care provider. He or she may be able to help determine the cause of your infertility and, more importantly, help you to address it effectively.

Posted in Health and Well-Being

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