Myths and Truths about Abortion and Fertility

Misinformation about abortion and fertility can make it hard to know what’s true. This can cause confusion and fear, especially when making big decisions about your reproductive health.  The following information will break down some of the common myths surrounding abortion and fertility so that you can make informed decisions regarding your reproductive health.  

Myth 1: Abortion Causes Infertility 

The Truth: Abortions performed by trained professionals are safe and unlikely to affect fertility. Although all procedures carry risk, both medical and surgical abortions are safe and effective treatment options. If complications occur during an abortion, they are typically minor and treatable.  

After having a surgical or medical abortion, ovulation can return relatively quickly, often before your first period returns. Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovaries, and it can happen as soon as two weeks after the procedure. This means that you could become pregnant again even if you haven't had a period yet. 

For this reason, it is important to start using contraception right away if you want to prevent an unintended pregnancy. Most contraceptive options can be started immediately after an abortion. However, some can take up to 7 days to become effective so please speak to your health care professional when making decisions regarding contraception. 

Myth 2: Abortion Leads to Long-Term Health Problems

The Truth: Abortion is a safe procedure, particularly if done in early pregnancy (up to 12 weeks). In later pregnancy the risks from an abortion rise, however overall, they still remain low. 

Some bleeding and pain is to be expected, and some people feel tired or sick after the procedure. There are also a small number of rare complications involved with the procedure that your health professional can discuss with you in detail. These include excessive bleeding, severe pain and infection. There is also a small chance of damage to the uterus or cervix during a surgical abortion. 

There is no evidence to suggest that an abortion leads to long term health problems.  

Myth 3: Abortion Causes Miscarriages in Future Pregnancies 

The Truth: There’s no evidence that a safe abortion increases the risk of future miscarriages or preterm births. Fertility and your ability to have a healthy pregnancy aren’t typically affected by an abortion. Other factors, like your overall health, age, underlying health conditions and lifestyle factors, play a much bigger role. 

Myth 4: Abortion Permanently Affects Your Hormones 

The Truth: Having an abortion does not permanently affect your hormones. While it’s normal for individuals to experience temporary fluctuations in hormone levels after an abortion, these changes are short-term and tend to resolve on their own. You may experience symptoms such as mood swings, breast tenderness or irregular periods for a few weeks following the procedure. However, these symptoms are temporary and usually subside as your body returns to its usual hormonal rhythm. There is no evidence to suggest that having an abortion has any long-term impact on someone’s hormone levels or reproductive health. If you are concerned about ongoing issues, we recommend you discuss these with your doctor. 

Breaking Down the Stigma 

A lot of the myths about abortions come from stigma and a lack of available information. Misinformation can make people scared or ashamed to seek the care they need/want.  

If you’re worried about how abortion might affect your fertility, call 1800 4 Choice (1800 424 642) and speak to one of our informed helpline nurses who are more than happy to provide you with accurate information about abortions and your fertility.