Abortion Experiences and Testimonials

I Want to Have an Abortion

All around the world, whether married or single, many women encounter unplanned and unwanted pregnancies. In such situations, a woman may choose to either continue the pregnancy and give birth or to terminate it. If a woman decides to have an abortion and has never gone through the procedure before, it is natural for her to begin researching and seeking reliable information.

During this period, the most helpful resource for a woman considering abortion is the experiences shared by other women who have gone through the same process, as well as information provided by medical authorities (doctors, healthcare institutions, and official organizations).

Is Having an Abortion Difficult?

Since modern abortion procedures are performed using vacuum aspiration, the process is brief and minimally invasive compared to other gynecological surgeries. Therefore, having an abortion is generally not a difficult experience.

The procedure does not involve surgical incisions. A speculum is used to access the cervix, and a thin tube (cannula) is inserted into the uterus. The pregnancy is then removed by vacuum. The process takes about five minutes and is performed under anesthesia, so the patient does not feel pain. After 5–10 minutes of rest, patients can usually resume their daily activities.

What Are the Requirements for an Abortion?

In Turkey, the legal requirements for a woman to have an abortion by her own decision are:

• Being over the age of 18
• Being unmarried
• Being within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy

Those under 18 who are not legally adults may have an abortion with parental consent, and married women may undergo the procedure with spousal consent, provided the pregnancy is under 10 weeks.

Post-Abortion Care: What to Watch Out For

Although abortion is a relatively simple and low-risk procedure compared to other gynecological surgeries, it still carries potential risks like infection. To avoid complications, women should follow their doctor's recommendations and use any prescribed medications as directed.

Post-abortion care is crucial to avoid health risks. This includes taking prescribed medications regularly and adhering to medical advice.

• Avoid swimming in the sea or pools for a short time to prevent infection
• Refrain from strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting
• Abstain from sexual intercourse for at least one week
• Attend a follow-up check-up one week after the procedure

If you experience symptoms such as fever, nausea, or vomiting after an abortion, consult your doctor without delay.

Is Abortion Harmful?

When performed under sterile and hygienic conditions by an experienced gynecologist, abortion is not harmful to a woman’s health. The safety of the procedure depends not only on how it is performed, but also on whether the patient follows post-operative care instructions and takes prescribed medications.

Does Abortion During the First Pregnancy Cause Infertility?

When abortion is carried out using the modern vacuum method in a sterile and hygienic environment by a qualified physician—and if the patient properly follows the aftercare process—the uterus is not damaged. Therefore, abortion during a first pregnancy does not cause infertility. The same applies to future pregnancies if similar conditions are met.

Women Who Choose to Have an Abortion

According to Turkish law, any unmarried woman over the age of 18 can legally choose to have an abortion for an unwanted pregnancy, as long as it is within the first 10 weeks.

Abortion Under General Anesthesia

To ensure the patient does not feel pain during the abortion procedure, anesthesia is administered. Depending on the doctor's or the patient's preference, this may be local or general anesthesia. While local anesthesia numbs the area, general anesthesia puts the patient to sleep. Women who are anxious about injections or pain may prefer general anesthesia.

Those choosing general anesthesia should refrain from eating or drinking for at least 5 hours before the procedure.

Abortion Under Local Anesthesia

Anesthesia preferences may vary depending on a patient’s anxiety level and pain tolerance. Women who are uncomfortable with the idea of general anesthesia and are not disturbed by the mild sting of a local injection may choose local anesthesia.

Patients opting for local anesthesia are still advised to fast for 5 hours before the procedure, in case they later decide to switch to general anesthesia at the clinic.