Does Abortion History and Age Affect Fertility and Miscarriage Risks?

Does the number of abortions and age affect infertility or decrease the chances of conception?

Hello, my wife is currently 34 years old.
She has had two abortions, one at the age of 18 and another at 32, both through medical abortion.
During the abortion at 32, she vomited the medication and may not have expelled everything, which could indicate a possible overdose of the medication.
Now that she is 34, I feel that it is difficult for her to conceive.
Could her age and the number of abortions she has had affect her fertility? If she does become pregnant, is there a possibility of miscarriage around the 7th to 8th month?

Fan Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the number of abortions and age can certainly affect fertility or reduce the chances of conception.
Therefore, it is advisable to use contraception if possible.
If pregnancy is still not achievable, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2015/07/12

More Info

Abortion history and age can indeed have an impact on fertility and miscarriage risks, but the relationship is complex and influenced by various factors. In your wife's case, at 34 years old, her previous abortions at ages 18 and 32, particularly the second one which was complicated, may play a role in her current fertility status.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the age of a woman is a significant factor in her fertility. As women age, the quality and quantity of their eggs decline, which can lead to difficulties in conceiving. At 34, your wife is still within a relatively fertile age range, but it is essential to consider that fertility begins to decline more noticeably after the age of 35.
Regarding her history of abortions, research indicates that multiple abortions can potentially lead to complications such as scarring of the uterus (Asherman's syndrome) or other structural issues that may affect future pregnancies. However, if the abortions were performed safely and without complications, the impact on fertility may be minimal. It is also worth noting that medical professionals often emphasize that the psychological and emotional aspects of abortion can also affect a woman's overall reproductive health.

In terms of miscarriage risks, studies have shown that women who have had previous abortions do not necessarily have a higher risk of miscarriage in subsequent pregnancies, provided there are no underlying complications from those procedures. However, age is a significant factor in miscarriage risk. As women age, the risk of miscarriage increases due to factors such as chromosomal abnormalities in the eggs. For women in their early 30s, the risk of miscarriage is about 15-20%, but this can increase with age.

Given your wife's history and current age, it is advisable to consult with a fertility specialist or an obstetrician who can provide personalized advice and conduct necessary evaluations. They may recommend tests to assess her reproductive health, including hormone levels, ultrasound examinations to check for uterine abnormalities, and possibly a semen analysis for you, as male factors can also contribute to fertility issues.

If your wife does conceive, the risk of miscarriage in the 7-8 month range is generally lower than in the first trimester, but it can still occur due to various factors, including age, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle factors. It is crucial for her to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, and attend regular prenatal check-ups to monitor the health of the pregnancy.

In summary, while your wife's abortion history and age can influence her fertility and miscarriage risks, many women with similar histories go on to have healthy pregnancies. Early intervention, proper medical care, and a supportive environment can significantly improve her chances of a successful pregnancy. If you have concerns about her ability to conceive or the health of a future pregnancy, seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action.

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