Are There Differences between Induced Abortion and Natural Childbirth?

During pregnancy, if a fetus is diagnosed with severe deformities or diseases, abortion may be necessary to terminate the pregnancy. Abortion differs significantly from childbirth and poses greater risks to the woman's body, especially in later stages of pregnancy. If abortion is considered, it is crucial to act promptly and choose a reputable hospital to minimize the potential harm to the woman's body.

Abortions in later months of pregnancy, specifically after the fourth month, are similar to childbirth. This involves injecting abortion medication into the amniotic cavity to initiate contractions. As the uterus contracts, the cervix dilates to varying degrees depending on the gestational age. If the pregnancy is four months, dilation of the cervix to 4-5cm is sufficient for the fetus to be expelled. However, in pregnancies of 7-8 months, full dilation of the cervix is required, which can be quite painful for the patient. Unlike childbirth, abortions involve smaller fetuses and typically do not cause tears in the perineum, which can occur during childbirth due to the larger size of the baby.

a. Post-abortion bleeding: Normally, there may be mild bleeding for about a week after abortion, which should not exceed normal menstrual flow and resolves spontaneously. However, bleeding exceeding 400 milliliters is considered post-abortion hemorrhage, requiring immediate medical attention and hemostasis. Significant blood loss can lead to shock, coma, and even life-threatening situations. Therefore, close observation of vaginal bleeding is crucial after abortion.

b. Post-abortion infection: Infections and complications after abortion typically occur within two weeks. Symptoms include fever lasting over 24 hours, indicating a secondary infection. Signs of infection may include:

(1) Persistent soreness and pain in the lower back and abdomen

(2) Purulent or bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor

(3) Severe hypotension, tachycardia, abdominal tenderness, and rebound tenderness in severe cases. Fortunately, this risk is manageable. Doctors often prescribe antibiotics to prevent infections post-operatively. By following the doctor's instructions and taking the medication regularly, patients can significantly reduce the risk of postoperative infections.

c. Birth canal injuries after abortion:

(1) Vaginal injuries: These are inevitable during abortion, whether it is a painless procedure or not, as it violates the natural bodily processes. The uterus contracts vigorously during abortion, which can lead to tears in the cervix, posterior fornix, or vagina.

(2) Uterine injuries: Some women may experience uterine rupture, a serious complication. In such cases, immediate surgical repair, such as cervical suture, is necessary to prevent vaginal bleeding. Uterine injuries can range from minor menstrual irregularities to infertility.

d. Amniotic fluid embolism after abortion: This occurs when the cervix dilates and the uterus contracts excessively during abortion, causing blood vessels to open and the amniotic sac to rupture. This allows amniotic fluid to enter the blood vessels, posing a significant risk.

e. Psychological imbalance after abortion: While the physical harm caused by abortion can be addressed medically, the psychological impact can be longer-lasting and sometimes unavoidable. Some women may experience depression and fear, which can affect their future fertility. Therefore, it is crucial for family and friends to provide adequate psychological support.