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In most abortions, no serious complications occur. However, serious
complications do happen in about 1 out of every 100 early abortions and in about
1 out of every 50 later abortions.
- Heavy Bleeding
- Some bleeding after abortion is normal. There is, however, a risk
for hemorrhage, especially if the uterine artery is torn. When this
happens, a woman may go into shock and blood transfusion may be required.
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- Infection
- Bacteria may get into the uterus from an incomplete abortion resulting in
infection. A serious infection may lead to persistent fever over several
days and extended hospitalization.
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- Incomplete Abortion
- Some fetal parts may not be removed by the abortion. Bleeding and
infection may occur. RU486 may fail in up to 1 out of every 20 cases.
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- Allergic Reaction to Drugs
- An allergic reaction to anesthesia used during abortion surgery may result
in convulsions, heart attack and, in extreme cases, death.
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- Tearing of the Cervix
- The cervix may be cut or torn by abortion instruments.
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- Scarring of the Uterine Lining
- Suction tubing, curettes, and other abortion instruments may cause
permanent scarring of the uterine lining.
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- Perforation of the Uterus
- The uterus may be punctured or torn by the abortion instruments. The
risk of this complication increases with the length of the pregnancy. If
this occurs, major surgery, including a hysterectomy, may be required.
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- Damage to Internal Organs
- When the uterus is punctured or torn, there is also a risk that damage
will occur to nearby organs such as the bowel and bladder.
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- Death
- In extreme cases, other physical complications from abortion including
excessive bleeding, infection, organ damage from a perforated uterus, and
adverse reactions to anesthesia may lead to death. This complication is
very rare and occurs, on average, in less than 20 cases per year
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