Could an elective abortion increase the risk of problems in a subsequent pregnancy?

Answer From Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D.

Generally, elective abortion isn't thought to cause fertility issues or complications in future pregnancies.

But risks to future pregnancies may depend on the type of elective abortion performed:

  • Medical abortion. Medication is taken in early pregnancy to abort the fetus. An elective medical abortion doesn't appear to increase the risk of future pregnancy complications, as long as it's done under the guidance of your health care team.
  • Surgical abortion. This is a surgical procedure to remove the fetus from the uterus through the vagina. The procedure is typically done using suction or an instrument called a curet. While many studies have shown that surgical abortion has limited impact on future pregnancies, a review of multiple studies suggested a link between prior surgical abortion and a slight increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Women who have multiple surgical abortions using a curet are at risk of scarring of the inner lining of the uterus (Asherman syndrome). This condition is associated with difficulty in becoming pregnant in the future.

If you have had an elective abortion and you are concerned about its possible impact on a future pregnancy, talk to your health care provider. Your provider can help you understand the potential risks and the steps you can take to promote a healthy pregnancy.

With

Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D.

From Mayo Clinic to your inbox

Sign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health. Click here for an email preview.

To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with other information we have about you. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could include protected health information. If we combine this information with your protected health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail.

Aug. 03, 2022 See more Expert Answers