What are the complications of induced abortion?

In general, as a surgical method to terminate pregnancy, induced abortion may lead to complications including bleeding, infection, uterine perforation, intrauterine adhesions, and secondary infertility. The details are as follows:

1. Bleeding: Inadequate uterine contraction during surgery, abnormal coagulation function, or retained pregnancy tissue may cause bleeding. Mild bleeding presents as slight vaginal bleeding lasting several days after surgery; severe cases may involve heavy bleeding accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and palpitations.

2. Infection: Infection can easily occur if aseptic techniques are not strictly followed during the procedure, postoperative personal hygiene is inadequate, or pre-existing reproductive system inflammation is uncontrolled. Common symptoms include fever, lower abdominal pain, increased vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor. If the infection spreads, it may affect organs such as the fallopian tubes and ovaries.

3. Uterine perforation: This may result from improper surgical technique, abnormal uterine position, or thin uterine walls. Small perforations may be asymptomatic and heal conservatively; larger perforations may damage surrounding organs, causing severe abdominal pain and internal bleeding.

4. Intrauterine adhesions: Excessive endometrial injury during surgery or poor endometrial repair afterward may lead to intrauterine adhesions. Patients may experience significantly reduced menstrual flow or amenorrhea. Severe adhesions can interfere with embryo implantation and impair future fertility.

5. Secondary infertility: Untreated complications may lead to secondary infertility. For example, infections causing tubal blockage or intrauterine adhesions affecting embryo implantation can both reduce the chances of conception.

Women are advised to use effective contraception when not planning a pregnancy, in order to avoid physical harm caused by induced abortion. If surgery is necessary, it should be performed at a qualified medical institution. Postoperative care should follow medical advice closely to minimize the risk of complications and protect reproductive health.