What is Abortion? What are the risks of abortion?
Abortion is a medical procedure women choose to protect their physical integrity, which is one of their most fundamental rights, and to improve their quality of life. However, the problem is much more than just a health procedure. This issue, which is at the center of social, political and cultural debates, is a very complex and sensitive one, both medically and ethically.
In this article, we want to give you more information about what abortion is, its causes and methods. At the same time, we try to show the subject from a different angle by explaining what the side effects are and what to look out for afterwards.
What is Abortion?
Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy. It can be performed in a variety of ways, including medical and surgical. Abortion can take place for various reasons. Unplanned pregnancies are one of them. Unwanted pregnancies can occur for a variety of reasons. In addition, serious medical problems, pregnancies after abuse or maltreatment, severe genetic abnormalities, and situations where the birth is risky for mother and baby are among the reasons for abortion.
Abortion can be performed in a variety of ways, including medical and surgical. Medical abortion is the termination of pregnancy with medication. Surgical abortion is the termination of pregnancy by surgical intervention. Other methods include vacuum aspiration and dilatation and curettage.
Abortion, like any medical procedure, is a procedure with risks and side effects. Risks specific to surgical procedures include infection, bleeding, damage to the uterine wall, and risks associated with anesthesia. Risks specific to medical interventions include abortion failure, drug side effects, and prolonged bleeding. In addition, the long-term effects of abortion have also been the subject of research.
The abortion decision-making process is determined by taking into account personal preference and information provided by health professionals and counselors. Pre-pregnancy counseling, identifying suitable candidates for abortion and things to consider in the decision-making process are important parts of this process.
Causes of Abortion
Abortion can be performed for many different reasons. Unplanned pregnancies, serious medical problems, pregnancies after abuse or maltreatment, severe genetic abnormalities, and situations where childbirth would be risky for mother and baby are the most common causes of abortion.
Unplanned pregnancies
Unplanned pregnancies are the most common reason for women to have an abortion. In this situation, a woman or couple may be faced with the difficult decision of whether to continue or terminate the pregnancy. This decision can depend on many factors, such as financial situation, parenting skills and personal preferences.
Serious medical problems
Serious medical problems are another reason for abortion. If the mother or baby has serious health problems, terminating the pregnancy is usually the best option. In this case, the child’s chances of survival are low and postnatal care costs may be high. Therefore, abortion can be performed in cases where there are serious genetic defects or where delivery would be risky for the mother and baby.
Pregnancy following abuse or harassment
Pregnancy after abuse or harassment is also one of the reasons for abortion. Women may have become pregnant after sexual abuse or rape. In this case, an abortion can help the woman recover from a difficult experience. Also, it can be difficult to sustain a pregnancy due to the traumatic consequences of such events.
abortion methods
Abortion is a medical procedure used to terminate a pregnancy. Abortion methods can vary depending on the week of pregnancy, the woman’s health condition, and the doctor’s preference.
Vacuum abortion
This method is the process of cleaning the tissues in the uterus by pulling with a vacuum device to terminate the pregnancy. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes about 5-10 minutes.
Medication Abortion
This method is carried out with the use of drugs to terminate pregnancy. The drugs cause the uterus to contract by secreting the hormones that cause the termination of pregnancy. This method is generally preferred for less than 10 weeks gestation.
D&C Abortion
This method uses two stages called dilation and curettage. First, the cervix, called the cervix, is enlarged, and then the tissues in the uterus are cleaned with a curettage.
D&E Abortion
This method involves two phases called dilation and evacuation. After the cervix has dilated, the tissues in the uterus are broken open using an instrument and then removed with a vacuum device.
Risks of Abortion
Bleed
Light bleeding after an abortion is normal, but excessive bleeding is rare and may require immediate medical attention.
Infection
There is a risk of infection after abortion. Symptoms of infection may include fever, severe abdominal pain, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
Damaged uterus
In rare cases, the uterus or other internal organs may be damaged during the abortion procedure.
Anesthesia risks
The anesthetic used during abortion can in rare cases cause serious side effects, such as anaphylactic shock.
Care after abortion
Abortion can be an emotionally and physically demanding process for women. Therefore, post-abortion care is very important. Good care can help the healing process go faster and more comfortably.
The first hours after an abortion are very important. During this process, women should monitor the amount and intensity of bleeding in the uterus. Normally, light bleeding and cramping can occur after an abortion. However, if there are symptoms such as excessive bleeding, severe pain or fever, it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately.
It is also important to rest and relax after an abortion. Women usually need to rest for a few days after an abortion. It is recommended to avoid heavy work and to lie down as much as possible. Simple relaxation techniques such as a hot water bottle or hot towel can also be used.
Nutrition also plays an important role in the recovery process after an abortion. Women should drink plenty of fluids and make sure they consume foods rich in protein, fiber and vitamins. Harmful substances such as alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes should be avoided.
Follow-up appointments after an abortion are also important. These agreements are made to monitor the recovery process after abortion. Doctors can perform an exam to look for any infections or other problems with the uterus.
Is abortion a painful procedure?
The abortion procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or sedation, so it is not painful. However, you may feel mild cramping, bleeding and pain after the procedure. These usually disappear within a few days.
When can I start having intercourse after an abortion?
Vaginal bleeding after an abortion can last for several days or weeks, so it is recommended to wait a few weeks before engaging in sexual activity. Your doctor can give you more specific information about this.
Can I get pregnant again after an abortion?
Yes, you can get pregnant normally after an abortion. However, it is recommended to wait several weeks after an abortion before getting pregnant. This gives your uterus time to heal.
Will having an abortion prevent me from having children in the future?
Abortion will not prevent you from having children in the future. In rare cases, however, complications can arise, such as uterine damage or infection, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for precautions.