If you have had a surgical abortion, or you are considering one, it is natural to think about what it means for your future. Questions about fertility and pregnancy after a termination are some of the most common concerns raised, and they are completely valid.
The reassuring answer is that an uncomplicated surgical abortion will not affect your chance of becoming pregnant in the future. At MSI Australia, our procedures are performed by qualified, experienced clinicians in accredited facilities. You can find out more about our surgical abortion services or call us on 1300 003 707
Fertility After a Surgical Abortion
Your body recovers quickly after a surgical abortion. Most abortions are uncomplicated and will not affect your ability to have children in the future.
Your reproductive system can return to fertility faster than many people expect. An egg can be released as early as 8 days after the procedure, which means pregnancy is possible again before your next period even arrives. If you are not planning to conceive straight away, it is important to discuss contraception options with your care team before or at your appointment.
What Are the Risks After a Surgical Abortion?
Surgical abortion is one of the most common types of surgery in Australia and is a safe procedure when performed by a trained clinician. As with any surgery, complications can occur in some cases. Being informed about these helps you know what to look out for and when to seek support.
Complications that can, in rare cases, affect future fertility include:
- Infection: Infection is a possible complication following a surgical abortion. In some cases, this can develop into pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Following all aftercare guidance, attending follow-up appointments, and reporting any signs of infection, such as fever, severe cramping, or unusual discharge, are important steps.
- Injury to the uterus: In rare instances, surgical instruments can injure the walls of the uterus. This complication is very rare when the procedure is carried out by an experienced clinician and will usually be recognised and treated straight away.
- Injury to the cervix: The cervix is opened during a surgical abortion. In rare cases this can cause some weakness of the cervix, particularly if a person has had multiple procedures. A weakened cervix can affect the ability to carry a future pregnancy to full term.
It is important to keep these risks in perspective. Complications occur in around 3 per cent of surgical abortion cases overall, and the risk is lower the earlier in pregnancy the procedure is performed. The last two complications listed above are rare when procedures are undertaken by experienced clinicians.
MSI Australia’s clinicians will discuss the risks with you before your procedure so you can ask any questions you have. Learn more about what to expect on our surgical abortion page.
Do Multiple Surgical Abortions Change the Risk?
Every procedure carries risks as outlined above. Injury to the cervix may be more associated with having had multiple surgical procedures, especially when the pregnancy is more advanced. The cervix can weaken over repeated procedures, and this can create challenges in carrying a later pregnancy. However, these complications remain uncommon even with more than one procedure, especially when care is provided by qualified clinicians.
If you have had more than one termination and you have concerns about your fertility or a future pregnancy, speaking with a healthcare professional is the best next step. Our team can provide confidential, non-judgemental guidance and refer you appropriately where needed.
If you are feeling anxious about your future family planning, or if you are considering an abortion and want to talk through your options, our team is here for you. Book a confidential consultation online or call us on 1300 003 707.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general purposes only. MSI Australia is not liable for any reliance on this information or advice. If you have concerns about your health, please consult your healthcare provider. For urgent care, visit your nearest Emergency Department.
