Frequently Asked Questions

Unplanned Pregnancy and Abortion: Clinical Answers to Common Questions

Does Resource Health Provide Abortions or Referrals?

Resource Health has licensed medical professionals that can discuss all of your options with you in a pressure-free environment. Our team members provide accurate medical information and compassionate support so you can feel empowered to make an informed choice. Resource Health does not refer for or perform abortions. All of our services are free, and we don’t profit from what you choose regarding your pregnancy. We are here to help you make an informed decision. And we are here for you afterward no matter what you choose.

What services do we offer? All Resource Health centers are staffed with real nurses and trained staff who provide pregnancy testing, ultrasound confirmation of pregnancy, STD testing and treatment, counseling on your options, and programs for men and women to support you throughout your pregnancy. Our goal is to ensure your health and well-being are the top priority, and that you never feel alone as you navigate this situation.

What Are the Types of Abortion Procedures?

If you are considering abortion, it is important to understand the two main methods and how they work:

Medication Abortion (Abortion Pill): This is a chemical method using two drugs, usually up to about 10 weeks gestation (70 days after your last period)[3]. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone (a hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy), stopping the embryo from growing[4]. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24 hours later to induce uterine contractions and expel the pregnancy [4]. This process often causes bleeding and cramping, similar to or heavier than a menstrual period, as the embryo is passed. It is sometimes referred to as a “medical” or “chemical” abortion (or “Plan C” in some discussions). It’s important to note that medication abortion should only be used in early pregnancy – beyond 10 weeks, its effectiveness drops and complication rates rise[3]. In approximately 0.5% of medication abortions, the pill fails to complete the abortion [5].
Surgical Abortion: All abortions after roughly 10 weeks are done via surgical procedures. “Surgical abortion” is a broad term that includes methods like vacuum aspiration (suction curettage) in the first trimester and dilation and evacuation (D&E) in the second trimester. In these procedures, a doctor dilates the cervix and uses suction or medical instruments to remove the fetus and pregnancy tissue from the uterus[6][7]. Early surgical abortions (first trimester) are often done with manual or electric suction. Later abortions require more dilation; second-trimester D&E, for example, uses forceps after dilation to remove fetal tissue. These are typically outpatient procedures with sedation or anesthesia for comfort[8][4]. Surgical methods should always be done by trained providers in appropriate settings. It is important to note that the risks increase with the greater the gestational age.

Important: Before any abortion, confirming that the pregnancy is in the uterus (not ectopic) is vital for safety. Additionally, approximately 15% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. This number increases to up to 30% of all pregnancies when considering miscarriages that occur prior to discovering the pregnancy [29]. Taking the time to confirm location and a living fetus are important first steps in making a safe decision.

Resource Health offers free ultrasounds after a positive test. Skipping this step – as can happen with mail-order or telehealth abortion pill services – could be dangerous. If an ectopic pregnancy is present, taking abortion pills can be life-threatening[9]. We encourage anyone considering abortion to get an ultrasound first, so you know exactly what your situation is before taking any pills or undergoing a procedure.

What Are the Risks or Side Effects of Abortion?

Every medical procedure, including abortion, carries potential risks and side effects. You have the right to know these risks so you can make an informed decision[10]. Below are outlined the clinical risks associated with abortion, grounded in research and medical data:

Incomplete Abortion / Retained Tissue: Sometimes an abortion does not remove all pregnancy tissue, especially with the abortion pill or later procedures. This is called an incomplete abortion and can lead to continued bleeding, infection, or the need for a follow-up surgical procedure to remove the remaining tissue[11]. Approximately 0.5% of medication abortions result in an ongoing pregnancy that will require a surgical procedure for completion[5], and the risk of retained tissue is higher the further along you are.
Heavy Bleeding (Hemorrhage): Serious bleeding can occur during or after an abortion. Most women have bleeding and cramping as part of the process, but in some cases the bleeding is heavier than expected. If severe, hemorrhage may require emergency measures like medication, IV fluids, or even a blood transfusion. Hemorrhage can result from uterine atony (when the uterus doesn’t contract properly after the abortion), from injury, or from retained tissue[12]. Studies indicate hemorrhage requiring hospitalization or transfusion is uncommon (under 1%), but when it does happen it’s considered a major complication[11]. The risk of heavy bleeding is one reason to have access to medical care during and after an abortion.
Infection: Any time the uterus is entered (as in surgical abortion) or tissue is being expelled (as in medication abortion), there’s a risk of infection. Infections can occur if some tissue remains (called incomplete abortion) and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, or if bacteria are introduced into the uterus during the procedure[12][13]. Signs of infection after an abortion include fever, worsening pelvic pain, or foul discharge. Most post-abortion infections can be treated with antibiotics, but severe infections (sepsis) are serious and require emergent care and hospitalization. Using sterile technique and, in some cases, preventive antibiotics can lower this risk; however, incomplete abortions or unsafe abortions with equipment that has not been appropriately sterilized greatly increase infection risk[13].
Physical Injury to Uterus or Cervix: In surgical abortions, especially those done in the second trimester, there is a small risk that medical instruments can puncture the uterus or cause tears in the cervix. The risk of such organ damage rises with later-term abortions because the procedures are more involved (the uterus is larger, the fetus more developed, and wider cervical dilation is needed)[12]. In rare cases, a perforation can injure adjacent organs like the bladder or bowel[12]. If a major injury occurs, surgery may be required to repair it. To lower your risk of this complication, it is crucial to use an experienced provider.
Short-Term Side Effects: Besides the above risks, women often experience additional side effects during the abortion process. With the abortion pill, cramping (often strong) and bleeding are part of the process, and other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever/chills are relatively common while the embryo is passing. Surgical abortions done with sedation can have anesthesia-related effects (drowsiness, nausea) and cramping/bleeding afterward. Most of these immediate side effects resolve with time and basic care (rest, fluids, pain medication). Our medical team can explain what is “normal” to expect and what warning signs to watch for after an abortion, so you can distinguish temporary discomfort from a complication that needs attention.
Emotional and Psychological Impact: Abortion isn’t just a physical experience. Mental health effects are an important consideration. While every woman’s situation is unique, extensive research has linked abortion to an increased risk of emotional or psychological difficulties afterward[14][15]. These can include feelings of sadness, guilt, or grief, as well as more serious issues like depression, anxiety, or even suicidal thoughts in some cases[14]. A large 2011 meta-analysis in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that women who had undergone an abortion were 81% more likely to experience mental health problems compared to women who had not had an abortion[16]. The same analysis noted particularly higher rates of substance abuse and suicidal behavior in women post-abortion[17]. It’s significant to understand that correlation is not the same as saying “every woman will feel this way,” but these findings do suggest many women struggle with negative emotions after abortion. In fact, long-term mental health decline (such as persistently higher rates of depression or anxiety) is listed as a potential risk of abortion[14]. At Resource Health, we take your mental well-being seriously. If you’re feeling pressure or uncertainty, or if you’ve had an abortion and are struggling, we have compassionate counseling and support that can help you process these emotions in a healthy way. It is important to acknowledge that abortion is not a trivial event – it can affect both body and mind; therefore, it is important to take your time to process your emotions and options before making a decision. We are here to support you throughout the process.
Later-Term Abortion Risks: Generally, the later in pregnancy an abortion is performed, the greater the medical risks. Early first-trimester abortions carry the lowest immediate risk, whereas second-trimester and especially late-term abortions (after ~20 weeks) have significantly higher complication and mortality rates. One comprehensive U.S. study found that the risk of death increases exponentially with each passing week of pregnancy – increasing by about 38% per week after 8 weeks gestation[18]. To put that in perspective: an abortion at 8 weeks has a very low risk of maternal death, but by 16–20 weeks the risk of death was 30 times higher than at under 8 weeks, and after 20 weeks it was 76 times higher[19]. Later abortions also have more chance of serious complications like hemorrhage, organ injury, or the need for emergency surgery[20][21]. Many states (including Missouri and Kansas) do not allow abortions in the late second or third trimester because of these risks and the advanced development of the baby at that stage[22]. Resource Health can discuss your options with you and support you during this challenging time.

Can Abortion Affect Future Fertility or Health?

A common concern is how an abortion might impact a woman’s health down the road – such as her ability to have children in the future or other health risks. Here’s what research shows on long-term effects:

Future Fertility: For the most part, an uncomplicated abortion (one without infection or injury) is not known to cause infertility. However, certain complications can put future fertility at risk. For example, a severe infection like untreated pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) could cause scar tissue that affects fertility. Likewise, a rare but serious complication called Asherman’s syndrome (scar tissue in the uterus, usually from aggressive D&C procedures) can lead to fertility problems or miscarriage risk in the future. These are uncommon outcomes, but it underscores why having a safe procedure and follow-up is important. There is also evidence of a link between surgical abortion and slightly increased risk of preterm birth in a later pregnancy. Several studies have found that women who have had one or more abortions may have a higher chance of giving birth prematurely when they later carry a baby to term[23][24]. One meta-analysis showed that having one prior abortion raised the risk of a subsequent preterm delivery (before 37 weeks) from about 10% to roughly 14% (an odds increase of about 1.5-fold)[23]. Women with two or more prior abortions had nearly double the risk of a future preterm birth (baseline 10% rising to ~18%)[24]. The hypothesis is that procedures like dilation of the cervix or uterine scraping might cause subtle physical changes (to the cervix or uterine lining) that make carrying a pregnancy slightly more difficult. Not all studies agree on the extent of this risk, but the trend has been observed enough that the American College of OB/GYN recommends informing women of a possible association between abortion and subsequent preterm birth. If you plan to have children later, it’s worth considering how an abortion now might affect your future pregnancies.
Breast Cancer: You may have heard conflicting information about whether abortion increases breast cancer risk. This is a controversial topic that has seen studies on both sides. The official position of major cancer research organizations (like the American Cancer Society) is that induced abortion is not a confirmed risk factor for breast cancer. However, some peer-reviewed studies – particularly international ones – have noted a possible correlation. Notably, a large 2014 meta-analysis of 36 studies in China found that women who had one or more abortions had a higher rate of breast cancer compared to women with no history of abortion[25]. In that analysis, a single abortion was associated with about a 44% increased risk of breast cancer (OR = 1.44), and the risk climbed higher with multiple abortions (for example, women with 3 or more abortions had nearly double the risk of breast cancer compared to those with none)[25][26]. The researchers concluded that induced abortion was significantly associated with increased breast cancer risk, and that the risk rose as the number of abortions increased[27]. It’s important to interpret this cautiously – some scientists argue that factors like having children later or not at all (which is more common in women who choose abortion) could also explain increased breast cancer rates. In other words, the relationship isn’t fully settled. But given that pregnancy and breastfeeding have protective effects against breast cancer, it is biologically plausible that ending a pregnancy might slightly alter those hormonal risk factors. Knowing about all credible research, even the studies that suggest potential risks, are necessary so you can weigh decisions for yourself[28][1]. We encourage you to discuss any questions about breast health with a medical professional; our team can provide information and refer for screenings if appropriate.
Other Health Considerations: Some studies have explored links between abortion and other issues like mental health (see Side Effects FAQs: Emotional and Psychological Impact), others have linked abortion to placental problems in future pregnancies. For instance, a few studies have found a higher incidence of placenta previa (when the placenta implants low in the uterus) in women with a history of D&C or abortion, possibly due to scarring. There’s also the aspect of emotional healing – if an abortion was traumatic for you, it could indirectly affect your well-being, relationships, and future birth experiences. For most women an abortion that has no complications will not cause any physical long-term effects like a new chronic illnesses. It does not cause conditions like uterine cancer or infertility outright. Avoiding complications (infection, injury) is what keeps future risks low – and avoiding unsafe abortion practices is critical. That’s why we strongly advise against attempting self-managed abortions or ordering abortion pills online without medical oversight. The safest path for your future health is to involve qualified medical providers, get proper screenings (like ultrasound), and have access to follow-up care.

I’m Pregnant and Considering Abortion – What Should I Do First?

An unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and you might be considering abortion because you feel it’s your only or best option right now. Before you decide, it’s wise to take a deep breath and make sure you have clear and factual information and support.

Confirm Your Pregnancy: If you haven’t already, get a reliable pregnancy test and an ultrasound exam. Confirming that the pregnancy is in the uterus (not ectopic) is vital for safety. Additionally, approximately 15% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. This number increases to up to 25% of all pregnancies when considering miscarriages that occur prior to discovering the pregnancy [29]. Taking the time to confirm location and a living fetus are important first steps in making a safe decision. Skipping this step – as can happen with mail-order or telehealth abortion pill services – could be dangerous. If an ectopic pregnancy is present, taking abortion pills can be life-threatening[9]. We encourage anyone considering abortion to get an ultrasound first, so you know exactly what your situation is before taking any pills or undergoing a procedure. All of our services are free, and we don’t profit from what you choose regarding your pregnancy.
Get Full Information on Your Options: When you have an unexpected pregnancy, you may feel like you have lost control of your body, your life, or your choices. At Resource Health, we want to empower you to make the best choice for you. Our trained staff and medical professionals will take time to review your options of Abortion, Adoption, or Parenting. Our compassionate staff will listen to your needs and discuss your options with you. Our team can walk you through what each path entails and answer common questions. We understand that you may feel overwhelmed or pressured to make a decision. Decisions made out of emotion or haste can lead to regret later. You may worry about finances, education, or lack of support. Resource Health specializes in connecting you to community resources, material support, parenting classes, and even housing or childcare referrals to help overcome those barriers. If you’re interested in adoption, we can connect you with reputable adoption agencies (where you have the option to choose the family if you wish), all while providing you support with compassion and respect. Our licensed medical staff can also walk you through the abortion options. Whether its medical or surgical abortion. You are valued and you deserve to know about all the options, including what support is available to you before making any decisions.
Learn about Abortion Procedures and Risks: When making a decision regarding abortion, it is important to understand what abortion options are available to you. Knowing about the specific procedures, the immediate side effects, and the possible risks are crucial for informed consent. You will have the opportunity to ask questions: What will I experience during and after? What if I have complications? A licensed medical provider can walk you through the process. Unfortunately, not every abortion clinic or provider takes the time to fully explain or answer all questions. You have a legal right to informed consent, which means you should be told about the procedure and its risks in a way you understand, before you sign anything[10]. Resource Health can equip you with a list of questions or even walk through the known risks so you feel prepared. No matter what you choose, we want you to feel confident that you have all the facts to make the best decision for yourself.
Consider Your Feelings and Future: An unexpected pregnancy can stir up a lot of emotions – fear, panic, even shame or pressure from others. It’s important to distinguish temporary problems from long-term consequences. Many challenges (finances, school, career timing) can be worked through with the right support. The decision to abort is irreversible and should be considered slowly and with care. Take a moment to consider how you might feel afterward. Is anyone pressuring you to choose abortion? Sometimes partners or loved ones push for it, but remember this is your body and your baby, and ultimately your decision. Our staff help clients find their own voice to communicate their choice to others. We also provide a safe space to just vent your worries and feelings without judgment. If you’re on the fence, it may help to envision yourself in a year – would you feel relief, or might you wonder “what if”? We are here to listen. No matter what your choice, you don’t have to go through it alone. Talking it out with a supportive professional or mentor can bring clarity.
Schedule an Appointment for Personalized Support: Ultimately, the best next step is to talk one-on-one with a healthcare professional who cares about your health and safety. At Resource Health, you can meet with a nurse or trained advocate for a free and confidential appointment. We will answer your questions, provide medically-sound information, and give you the space to make the decision that’s right for you. Because we have multiple locations across the Kansas City area, we can usually get you in quickly at a center convenient to you[2]. There’s no cost and no pressure – just caring support. Many women tell us they felt a weight lifted after talking to someone at Resource Health, even if they were initially scared to reach out. You’re not alone in this! Scheduling an appointment can help you confidentially navigate next steps.

Encouragement: Facing an unexpected pregnancy is hard – we acknowledge that. You might feel like your life has been turned upside down overnight. But countless women who have sat in your seat have gotten through this and even found unexpected hope and strength. Knowledge is power: the more you learn about your body, your pregnancy, and your options, the more empowered you’ll be to make a decision you can live with. If you’re feeling panicked or pressured, give yourself the chance to slow down and gather information. Resource Health is here for you, no matter what you decide. We’ll support you emotionally and physically, whether that means helping you carry to term or simply being a caring place to process your decision.

When making your decision, be sure you’ve considered the medical facts and the “big picture” of your health and future. We invite you to reach out to Resource Health – let’s walk through this together. Our doors are open, and your appointment is 100% free and confidential. You can call us or book it online yourself. Remember, you are not alone, and you have people ready to support you every step of the way.

Sources: This information is drawn from medically-reviewed research and resources. For instance, studies have documented the complication rates and risks of abortion procedures[11][19], as well as potential mental health impacts[17] and future pregnancy considerations[23]. We reference scientific findings (e.g. published in journals like British Journal of Psychiatry, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Cancer Causes & Control) to provide factual insight. Resource Health’s own publications and the Mayo Clinic were also consulted for accurate medical information.[28][4] If you have further questions about any of these topics, our medical staff can provide you with literature at your appointment.

[1] [28] Pregnancy Resource Center Myths

https://www.resourcehealth.org/post/let-s-be-real-debunking-pregnancy-resource-center-myths

[2] [10] [14] [15] [20] [21] [22] Know the Risks | Resource Health

https://www.resourcehealth.org/abortionrisks

[3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [11] [12] [13] Abortion Complications - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430793/

[16] [17] Abortion and mental health: quantitative synthesis and analysis of research published 1995-2009 - PubMed

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21881096/

[18] [19] Risk factors for legal induced abortion-related mortality in the United States - PubMed

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15051566/

[23] [24] Practice Guideline 5: The Association between Surgical Abortion and Preterm Birth: An Overview - Issues in Law & Medicine

https://issuesinlawandmedicine.com/articles/practice-guideline-5-the-association-between-surgical-abortion-and-preterm-birth-an-overview/

[25] [26] [27] A meta-analysis of the association between induced abortion and breast cancer risk among Chinese females - PubMed

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24272196/

[29] Incidence of Early Loss of Pregnancy-The New England Journal of Medicine

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM198807283190401