Q14. How safe is an abortion?

A14.� Surgery is safe but any procedure which is performed under a general anaesthetic has a small amount of risk.

In general, abortion is a safe and effective procedure with no long term effects.

What is important to remember with abortion is that the earlier the stage of your pregnancy you have an abortion the safer the treatment. The risks do increase the later you decide to have an abortion but these are still quite rare.

Your GP or doctor at the clinic will discuss the risks and complications of abortion with you.

Find out more in our methods of abortion section.

FAQS Index:

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Abortion FAQs

1. My pregnancy is unplanned, should I consider an abortion?
2. Does abortion hurt?
3. Why is abortion such a controversial issue?
4. I am thinking about having an abortion; what do I need to consider?
5. Is there more than one type of abortion?
6. I am under 16; do I have to get my parents permission to have an abortion?
7. How much does an abortion cost?
8. What reasons do women give for having an abortion?
9. Should I have my abortion on the NHS or at a private clinic?
10. Does counselling help?

12. How do I arrange an abortion on the NHS?
13. How do I arrange an abortion at a private clinic?
14. What is a ‘late term abortion?’
15. How safe is an abortion?
16. Will having an abortion make me infertile?
17. What happens at the initial consultation?
18. What are the risks of an abortion?
19. What can I expect after my abortion?
20. What is the aftercare?
21. Will I be able to have a baby some point in the future even though I have had an abortion?

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