Informed Decision-Making
Emotional & Physical Risks
Every pregnancy decision carries real consequences — physical and emotional. Understanding these risks before you decide is an important part of informed consent.
This page covers the risks associated with all pregnancy outcomes — not to frighten you, but to ensure you have complete, honest information. If you have questions or need support, our free chatline is here.
Physical Risks
Abortion Pill (Medication Abortion)
- Incomplete abortion requiring surgical follow-up (occurs in 2–5% of cases)
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding requiring medical attention or transfusion
- Infection or sepsis — including rare but fatal cases reported to the FDA
- Severe abdominal cramping and pain
- Ectopic pregnancy not detected prior to use — a life-threatening emergency
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever as common side effects
Surgical Abortion
- Uterine perforation — a hole in the uterus caused by surgical instruments
- Cervical injury from dilation
- Hemorrhage requiring transfusion
- Infection or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Incomplete abortion requiring a repeat procedure
- Damage to surrounding organs (bowel, bladder)
- Anesthesia complications
- Asherman's syndrome — scarring of the uterine lining that may affect future fertility
Pregnancy & Childbirth
- Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and other pregnancy complications
- Labor and delivery complications including hemorrhage and infection
- Cesarean section and associated surgical risks
- Postpartum hemorrhage
- Physical recovery time of 6–8 weeks or longer after birth
Emotional & Psychological Risks
Emotional responses to pregnancy decisions are real, valid, and vary widely from person to person. No one should be surprised by what they feel — or made to feel that their emotions are wrong.
After Abortion
Women who have had abortions report a wide range of emotional responses. While some experience relief, many also experience grief, sadness, guilt, shame, regret, anxiety, and depression. Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS) is a recognized condition involving trauma symptoms including flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness, and difficulty with relationships. Studies suggest that negative emotional outcomes are more common than is often acknowledged, particularly among women who felt pressured or uncertain.
If you are experiencing emotional distress after an abortion, you are not alone. Support is available.
After Placing a Child for Adoption
Birth mothers often describe a complex mix of love, grief, and peace. Grief after placement is normal and can be long-lasting. Many birth mothers benefit from ongoing counseling and peer support groups. Open adoption arrangements can help, but they also come with their own emotional complexities.
Grief after adoption is real and deserves care and support.
Parenting After an Unexpected Pregnancy
Parenting an unplanned child can bring deep joy and meaning — and also significant stress, especially without adequate support. Postpartum depression affects up to 1 in 5 new mothers and is treatable. Financial stress, relationship strain, and lack of support are real challenges that can be addressed with the right resources.
Support for new and expectant mothers is available — you do not have to navigate this alone.
Aftercare & Support
Whatever decision you make, caring for yourself afterward matters. Here are some important aftercare considerations.
Physical aftercare after abortion
Rest for at least 24 hours. Avoid strenuous activity, tampons, and sexual intercourse for 1–2 weeks. Watch for signs of infection: fever over 101°F, foul-smelling discharge, or worsening pain. Attend all follow-up appointments — especially after a medication abortion to confirm it is complete.
Emotional aftercare
Give yourself permission to feel whatever you feel. Talk to a trusted friend, counselor, or support group. Avoid isolating yourself. If you are experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional or our chatline.
When to seek emergency care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience: soaking more than two pads per hour for two consecutive hours, fever over 101°F lasting more than 24 hours, severe abdominal pain not relieved by ibuprofen, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or no bleeding within 24 hours of taking misoprostol.
You deserve complete information and real support.
If you have questions about any of these risks, or need someone to talk to, our free and confidential chatline is here for you.