Dear boobaheyez15,

In theory, you can become pregnant soon after having an abortion without experiencing any health problems. A safe, uncomplicated, legal abortion does not affect a woman's ability to have children in the future. So, unless there are significant complications, such as a damaged cervix, a woman's fertility is not affected by abortion. Contrary to what you may have heard, abortion does not

• make miscarriage more likely
• make ectopic (tubal) pregnancy more likely
• increase the risk of birth defects, premature birth, or low birth weight in future pregnancies

Abortion is a very safe procedure. It's about twice as safe as having tonsils removed, and is much safer than giving birth.

If you are planning to become pregnant, it is important to find a clinician who specializes in pregnancy health and delivers babies. You can ask for recommendations from your current clinician, family doctor, family members, or friends who have been pregnant. Call your nearest Planned Parenthood at 1-800-230-PLAN for information about pregnancy, abortion services, and birth control.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.