What Are the Risks of Terminating a First Pregnancy?

Vacuum aspiration (surgical abortion) inevitably causes some degree of uterine trauma, though the extent varies. When performed according to standard protocols and followed by adequate postoperative rest and timely follow-up examinations—without complications—the impact on the uterus is generally minimal. However, in rare cases, a woman’s first pregnancy termination may impair future fertility, most commonly due to surgical complications. Both surgical and medical abortions carry inherent risks. Common adverse effects include incomplete abortion, which may lead to vaginal bleeding—or even severe hemorrhage—as well as post-abortion menstrual disorders (e.g., menorrhagia), and secondary infertility.

Inadequate postoperative recovery may lead to secondary infection, potentially compromising fallopian tube patency and thereby affecting future conception. It is important to recognize that every abortion carries risks; however, the likelihood of complications increases with the number of abortions undergone. If pregnancy is not planned, reliable contraception must be used consistently to avoid the physical and uterine harm associated with abortion procedures. Should pregnancy occur subsequently, preconception evaluation is essential—including assessment of uterine health—to determine whether the uterine environment is suitable for pregnancy.