Abortion Risks and Side Effects

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Whether you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, or have questions about your options, we are here for you.
Call us at (636) 464-8400 or make an appointment online.

ABORTION RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

Before you have any elective procedure it’s important to know the potential impacts it could have on your body and future health. Risks and side effects vary by the type of procedure and how far along you are.

Abortion Pill Risks Include:

Sustained fever, severe abdominal pain, prolonged heavy bleeding, or fainting
Abdominal pain or discomfort, or general malaise (“feeling sick,” including weakness, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, with or without fever)

In-Clinic Surgical Abortion Risks Include:

heavy bleeding
incomplete abortion
infection
organ damage
emboli
anesthesia complications
Rh sensitization
In extreme cases, death

The later term abortions carry the highest risks. A medical professional is available to discuss with you in further detail these procedures and potential short and long-term risks.

What are the potential future risks?

There is evidence of emotional, relational, and even spiritual risks following an abortion procedure. Most women say they initially felt relief and looked forward to their lives returning to normal. But some women report negative emotions after abortion, that linger, unresolved. For others, problems related to their abortion emerge months or even years later. After abortion, most women can become pregnant again. However, abortion may increase the risk of complications that can impact future pregnancies and the health of future children. Below are a few of the potential risks on future pregnancies and children:

Pre-Term Birth
Low Birth Weight
Placenta Previa

To learn more about emotional risks after abortion, check out our After Abortion Care page, or make an appointment to talk with someone at Hand ‘n Hand about your options.

Abortion Reversal

If you have taken the first dose of the abortion pill (RU486 mifepristone) and are experiencing doubts about your abortion, it may be possible to reverse your abortion. Every hour since your first dose of the abortion pill matters, so it’s important to call the Abortion Reversal Hotline at 877-558-0333 or Hand ‘n Hand to locate a provider near you as soon as possible.

Feeling Pressured?

You are the only one who can choose an option for your unplanned pregnancy. You should not allow anyone to force you into a decision. Our staff wants to support you as you explore your options. If you’re feeling pressured by someone to have an abortion, visit the Hand’n Hand Women’s Center first.

Feeling Pressured?

What others are saying about Hand'n Hand Women's Center

"This place has been amazing to me. I walked in scared to death and they were there with open arms. Can't thank them enough"

"Hand 'n Hand was really honest with me and helped me through a tough situation. They listened and gave me the individual attention I really needed. This is one of the safest places to go if you need help"

"Everyone at Hand 'n Hand was nothing short of a blessing. They were the most compassionate people I've ever met. The world needs more places like this."

What others are saying about Hand'n Hand Women's Center

"This place has been amazing to me. I walked in scared to death and they were there with open arms. Can't thank them enough"

"Everyone at Hand 'n Hand was nothing short of a blessing. They were the most compassionate people I've ever met. The world needs more places like this."

Questions & Answers

Q. Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are welcome; however, it is best to make an appointment to minimize your office wait time, please call us at 636.464.8400, or schedule an appointment online.

Q. At what point should I schedule an appointment?

Our professional medical-grade lab quality pregnancy test can determine pregnancy the first day after your first missed period. We recommend you make an appointment if you have missed a period, have any pregnancy related questions, or think you might be pregnant.

Q. What should I expect when I come in for my initial visit?

After completing paperwork, you will meet with our medical professionals to go over your information and a pregnancy test will be administered. With a positive pregnancy test result, we will then confirm a living, intrauterine pregnancy via an ultrasound.

Q. Is there a fee for your services?

All our services are provided free of charge.

Q. What will I need to bring with me when I come in?

All you need is photo ID. If receiving a pregnancy test or limited ultrasound you will need to drink plenty of water to ensure you have a full bladder.

Q. Can I bring anyone with me?

Absolutely, you can bring your boyfriend, family member or friend. We will talk with you privately first. Then provided you have given us consent to have them in the room, your guest will be able to join you. Please no children at this visit.

Q. What if my boyfriend or parent calls to see if I came in?

We adhere to a strict privacy and confidentiality policy. Clients will be protected from disclosure of information that violates their right to privacy except where required by law, required for public health reasons, required to avert a threat of harm to the client or a third person, or when other circumstances may reasonably warrant such use or disclosure without prior authorization (e.g., abuse reporting, suicide/homicide prevention, etc.) Call 636 464-8400 or Text 314 313-1794

Abortion Risks and Side Effects

Abortion Risks and Side Effects

Abortion Risks and Side Effects

Engage Equip Empower