What the Research Says

Abortion is one of the most discussed and most misunderstood topics in healthcare.

As reproductive healthcare has become the focus of new laws and public debate, misinformation has become more common online and in public conversations.

Below are several common questions about abortion, along with what current medical research and major healthcare organizations say.

Is Medication Abortion Safe?

Yes.

Medication abortion, most commonly using mifepristone and misoprostol, has been extensively studied for decades.

Research consistently shows that medication abortion is safe and effective when provided according to established medical guidelines. Serious complications are rare, occurring in well under 1% of cases.

Medication abortion now accounts for approximately 65% of abortions in the United States.

Is Telehealth Medication Abortion Safe?

Research has found that medication abortion provided through telehealth is also safe and effective.

Patients can consult with a licensed clinician remotely and, where permitted by law, receive medication by mail.

Despite this evidence, several states, including Iowa, have enacted laws restricting telehealth medication abortion.

Does Going to the Emergency Room Mean a Medication Abortion Failed?

Not necessarily.

Some patients visit an emergency department after a medication abortion because they have questions, want reassurance, or are experiencing expected symptoms such as bleeding or cramping.

These visits should not automatically be interpreted as serious medical complications.

Serious complications requiring hospitalization remain uncommon.

Does Abortion Increase the Risk of Mental Health Problems?

Current research has not found a causal link between having an abortion and long-term mental health problems.

Studies have found that emotional experiences vary from person to person, but many patients report relief after receiving wanted abortion care.

Research has also found that being unable to obtain a wanted abortion can be associated with greater psychological distress.

Does Abortion Cause Infertility?

No.

Legal abortion provided according to accepted medical standards has not been shown to cause infertility.

Most people who have an abortion can become pregnant again if and when they choose.

Are Abortions Common?

Yes.

Abortion is a common healthcare experience.

Research estimates that approximately 1 in 4 women in the United States will have an abortion by age 45.

People seek abortion care for many different reasons, including financial circumstances, existing family responsibilities, health concerns, and pregnancy complications.

Does Reproductive Healthcare Only Mean Abortion?

No.

Reproductive healthcare includes many services beyond abortion, including:

• Prenatal care
• Labor and delivery
• Miscarriage management
• Birth control
• Fertility care
• Cancer screenings
• Annual wellness visits
• Postpartum care

Understanding reproductive healthcare means understanding the full spectrum of care people receive throughout their lives.

Does Restricting Abortion End the Need for It?

Research suggests restrictions change where and how people access care more than whether they seek care.

Since the Dobbs decision, abortion provision by U.S. clinicians has continued despite changing state laws, while patterns of interstate travel and telehealth have shifted.

In Iowa, recent reporting has also documented increasing numbers of patients traveling out of state for care.

Can You Trust Everything You Read Online?

Not always.

Healthcare information should come from credible, evidence-based sources.

When evaluating health information, consider whether it comes from:

• Medical organizations
• Peer-reviewed research
• Licensed healthcare professionals
• Public health agencies

Be cautious of claims that rely on anecdotes, sensational language, or lack scientific evidence.

The Bottom Line

Healthcare decisions should be informed by accurate, evidence-based information.

Whether you're learning about medication abortion, pregnancy, miscarriage care, or reproductive health, understanding what current medical research says can help separate fact from misinformation.

As reproductive healthcare continues to evolve in Iowa and across the country, ICRF will continue sharing factual, research-backed information to help Iowans better understand the issues affecting healthcare in our state.

Related Reading

• The Current State of Reproductive Healthcare in Iowa
• How Abortion Bans Affect Miscarriage Care
• Why Mailing Mifepristone Is Being Targeted
• Your Vote Shapes Healthcare in Iowa

Sources

• Guttmacher Institute: How to Counter 10 False Narratives About Abortion in an Age of Misinformation
• Guttmacher Institute: Abortion in the United States
• Guttmacher Institute: How Innovative Uses of Telehealth Can Support Abortion Access

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