Does Abortion Affect Future Fertility?

Despite increased education and growing awareness, many women still feel uncomfortable discussing personal and intimate health issues. This discomfort often leads to the spread of misinformation and myths surrounding important topics like safe sex, pregnancy, and abortion. One topic that is particularly misunderstood is abortion and its effects on a woman’s body. A common concern is whether abortion negatively impacts future fertility, with some believing it can significantly reduce a woman’s chances of conception. But is this true, or is it just a myth that needs debunking? Let’s explore the facts.

Understanding Abortion (Medical Termination of Pregnancy/MTP)

First of all, let us understand what an abortion or a Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is. Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is a legal procedure in India for ending early to mid-pregnancy using medication or minor surgery. It works by stopping fetal development and inducing uterine contractions. Under India’s revised MTP Act (2021), abortions are permitted for up to 24 weeks. When done correctly, hardly 2%–5% of cases need further intervention.

The method of abortion (Medical Termination of Pregnancy/MTP) depends on how far along the pregnancy is. If you’re up to nine weeks pregnant, a medical abortion is an option, involving pills to terminate the pregnancy. Cramping, discomfort, and nausea may follow. If you are up to 12 weeks pregnant, then it can be surgically aborted. Beyond 12013 weeks, there is only one option of medical abortion. Your doctor will explain the process and provide support. Alternatively, a surgical abortion may be recommended for later pregnancies.

Abortion and Future Fertility

Having an abortion typically doesn’t impact future fertility or increase the risk of pregnancy complications if conducted in a safe environment and if conducted at legally permitted hospitals.  There is a slight risk to fertility and future pregnancies if a womb infection, following an abortion, isn’t treated promptly. Usually, bleeding occurs for 4–7 days after medical abortion, which may be extended up to 14 days.

If bleeding occurs for more than 14 days, then there is a chance that abortion is not complete. In these situations, it is imperative to complete the abortion process by surgical method. If the patient fails to report to the doctor despite>14 days of bleeding, infection can lead to reduced chances of pregnancy in the future. The infection could spread to the fallopian tubes and ovaries, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can raise the chances of infertility or ectopic pregnancy, but most infections are treated before reaching this advanced stage. Therefore, regular follow-up with the doctor is essential to prevent such complications.

Additional Reasons for Infertility After Abortion

Misconceptions about abortion often suggest it poses a risk to future fertility. In reality, many factors influence fertility over time, and getting pregnant can be complex. Some of these factors are:

• Your Age:
  Fertility naturally decreases with age, especially for women over 35 years of age.
  
  
• Your Lifestyle habits:
  Smoking, drug use, and other lifestyle factors can impact fertility for both partners.
  
  
• Your Medical History:
  STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea, along with chronic conditions such as diabetes or hormonal disorders, can affect fertility.
  
  
• Your Partner’s Fertility:
  Semen quality also plays a role, and even if pregnancy has occurred before, ageing and lifestyle changes may impact your partner’s fertility.

While abortion is generally safe and doesn’t harm fertility, it’s important to consider other health and lifestyle factors that may impact the ability to conceive.

Over to You

Misconceptions about abortion not only cause harm but also reinforce stigma and a culture of silence. There’s no evidence that a safe abortion affects fertility, and some routine procedures carry even higher risks. Choosing the best gynaecologist is essential. Thanks to his successful outcomes and positive patient feedback, Dr. Niraj Mahajan is highly recommended in Mumbai. He stays updated on the latest techniques, adheres to strict safety standards, and provides compassionate, personalised care.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Niraj Mahajan