Failed Abortions

One of the more controversial social issues in America continues to be that of abortion. Many individuals may be surprised to learn that there are a number of failed abortions each year. Most abortions are performed during the first trimester, and have the lowest risk of complications. It is estimated, however, that between 1 and 14 out of every 1000 medical abortions fails.

Two medications are in use for medical abortions: Mifepristone and Misoprostol. However, these drugs do have failure rates, ranging from 0.1% in the first 49 days of pregnancy to 5.1% between days 84 and 91. In such cases, the woman remains pregnant. Women who take these medications are advised to have an ultrasound three weeks later in order to determine if they had a successful or failed abortion. In cases of failed abortions, surgical abortions are often recommended, as there is a small chance of fetal abnormality. It is believed that this risk is less than 1 in 1000.

The Internet is rife with various websites offering testimonials from individuals claiming to be the survivors of failed abortions. Melissa Ohden, who survived a late-term saline abortion, is the founder of the Abortion Survivor Network and an outspoken anti-abortion advocate in the United States. Anti-abortion advocates claim that some 1200 children are born each year after failed abortions.