What Are Some of the Other Risks of Abortion?

Abortion may increase the risk of Breast Cancer

Medical experts are still researching and debating the linkage between abortion and breast cancer. However, a 1994 study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found: "Among women who had been pregnant at least once, the risk of breast cancer in those who had experienced an induced abortion was 50% higher than among other women." All 12 women participating in the study who had abortions before 18 and had a family history of breast cancer themselves got cancer before age 45.

Here are other important facts

1. Carrying a pregnancy to full term gives protection against breast cancer that does not occur if the pregnancy is aborted.
   
   
2. Abortion causes a sudden drop in oestrogen levels that may make breast cells more susceptible to cancer.
   
   
3. Most studies conducted so far show a significant link between abortion and breast cancer.

Abortion May Effect Risk Levels in Future Pregnancies

Scarring or other injury during an abortion may prevent or place at risk future wanted pregnancies. The risk of miscarriage is greater for women who abort their first pregnancy.

Abortion May Increase the Risk of Emotional Problems

Some women experience strong negative emotions after abortion. Sometimes this occurs within days and sometimes it happens after many years. This psychological response is known as Post-Abortion Stress (PAS). Several factors that increase the risk of Post-Abortion Stress include: the woman's age, the abortion circumstances, the stage of pregnancy at which the abortion occurs, and the woman's religious beliefs.

Post-Abortion Stress Symptoms

• Guilt Anger
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal Thoughts
• Anniversary Grief
• Flashbacks of Abortion
• Sexual Dysfunction
• Relationship Problems
• Eating Disorders
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse
• Psychological Reactions

A final word

An unplanned pregnancy can be traumatic. The offer of a safe, quick, inexpensive way to become unpregnant is obviously attractive. But abortion is not a time machine. Like childbirth, it carries consequences that can last a lifetime.

Resist the pressure to make a quick decision. Take a few days to be sure you understand the consequences of abortion and that you are willing to accept them.

Whatever you decide, help is available at PREGNANCY HELP GEELONG.

If you are considering abortion and would like to talk to someone confidentially please feel free to contact us.

 

 

 

 

Helpline 1800 440 540 (Free Call)