Can You Get Pregnant If You’ve Had an Abortion in the Past?

A previous abortion procedure may cause concern if you wish to conceive in the future. Many women are worried about their fertility and reproductive health if they have had an abortion earlier in life. Despite many worrying misconceptions, the truth is that abortion will not affect your future ability to become pregnant.

Possible Complications

While abortion does not affect your fertility, it may raise your risk for certain pregnancy complications such as vaginal bleeding and placenta previa. However, regular care during pregnancy can easily diagnose and address these complications. If you experienced an infection before or after your abortion that required medical care or hospitalization, you should check with your doctor if you have questions about becoming pregnant again.

Cervical Insufficiency

Surgical abortion techniques require dilation of the cervix to remove the fetus and placenta. Any procedure that dilates the cervix has the potential to weaken it. This raises your chances for a condition called cervical insufficiency , in which pressure from the fetus causes the cervix to dilate prematurely during pregnancy. This mild complication can be easily addressed, often with just a few stitches to hold the cervix closed until birth.

Uterine Scar Tissue

Undergoing numerous procedures which dilate the cervix and clean out the uterus can cause scar tissue to form in these areas. This condition is rare, but it can be easily diagnosed and treated. A physician can perform a procedure called hysteroscopy, during which a small camera is used to inspect the cervix and uterus for scar tissue. This tissue can often be removed during the same procedure to ensure a healthy future pregnancy.

Washington Surgi-Clinic has been serving the needs of women from Washington, Maryland, and Virginia since 1973, providing supportive and professional health care and abortion options. We are dedicated to protecting your dignity and privacy while providing safe and affordable abortion options. Please call us today at (202) 659-9403 or visit our website for more information about abortion and fertility.