miscarriage

Abortion Risks

by David Reardon, Ph.D.

Physical risks

  • Breast Cancer. The risk of breast cancer almost doubles after one abortion, and rises even further with two or more abortions.
  • Cervical Cancer. Women who have had one abortion face a 2.3 relative risk of cervical cancer, compared to women who have never had an abortion.
  • Placenta Previa. Abortion increases the risk of placenta previa in later pregnancies (a life-threatening condition for both the mother and her wanted pregnancy.)
  • Immediate Complications. Approximately 10 percent of women undergoing elective abortion will suffer immediate complications of which approximately one-fifth (2 percent) are considered life-threatening. 1

Emotional risks

Many women rationalize the need for an abortion, repressing any initial feelings of guilt. As a result, emotional reactions to abortion are delayed, sometimes for as long as five to 10 years.

  • Sad mood
  • Sudden and uncontrollable crying episodes
  • Deterioration of self-concept
  • Sleep, appetite and sexual disturbances
  • Reduced motivation
  • Disruption in interpersonal relationships
  • Extreme guilt and anxiety
  • Psychological "numbing"
  • Depression and thoughts of suicide 2

David Reardon, Ph.D., has been involved in post-abortion research since 1983 and has published several books available through Easton Publishing Co. at 1-888-635-0609. Dr. Reardon founded the Elliot Institute in 1988 to promote original research and education on the effects of abortion on women, men, families and society.

The complete brochure (item 459) is available from:

Easton Publishing Company, Inc.

P.O. Box 1064

Jefferson City, MO 65102

1-888-635-0609

info@eatonpublishing.com

  1. List of Major Physical Sequelae Related to Abortion, www.afterabortion.org.
  2. Paul C. Reisser, M.D., and Teri K. Reisser, M.S., "Identifying and Overcoming Post-Abortion Syndrome," (Colorado Springs: Focus on the Family, 1994), pg. 11.
Excerpted from the brochure, Do YOU Really Want an Abortion? Copyright © 1999 Easton Publishing Company, Inc. Used with permission.

Background Information

When Grief Doesn't End
Despair can halt the natural and healthy process of grieving.

Understanding Miscarriage
Here are the symptoms and causes of miscarriage.

What Not to Say
Sometimes even people with good intentions say the most hurtful things.

Questions and Answers

What are some common reactions to a miscarriage?
Answer

When I want to get pregnant again, is there anything I can do to improve my chances of carrying the baby to term?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Suffering Toward God
Facing their daughter's death forces one couple to answer life's hardest questions.

I Never Knew You, Still I Love You
One woman's story of her grieving period when she miscarried.

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

Hope and Comfort From the Bible
If you're asking God why this happened to your baby, here are some of His answers from the Bible.

Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?

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