Can Abortions Cause Endometriosis? Myths vs. Facts

Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy. Spontaneous abortion or miscarriage is the unintentional loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks. Many people think that abortion or miscarriage causes endometriosis (endo), but that is not the case. This myth is most likely due to confusion regarding endometriosis and endometritis.

This article reviews these misconceptions, the difference between endometriosis and endometritis, other endo myths, abortion options for those with endometriosis, treatment access, and endo pain management. 

Abortion Doesn’t Cause Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a gynecologic condition that occurs when endometrial-type tissue is present outside the uterus or womb. As endometrial lesions grow and bleed outside the uterus, they cause pain and other symptoms. 

While the exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, there is no evidence that abortion causes it. This includes medication and surgically induced abortions. 

And Neither Do Miscarriages

A miscarriage is the unintentional loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks. In medicine, it is also referred to as a spontaneous abortion. 

Research shows that those with endometriosis have a high risk of miscarriage and ectopic (outside the uterus) pregnancy. However, there is no evidence that miscarriages cause endometriosis. 

The myth that miscarriage or abortion can cause endometriosis is most likely because each can cause endometritis. While endometritis and endometriosis sound similar, they are distinct and unrelated health conditions. 

Other Endo Myths

The following are other common misconceptions about endometriosis:

Myth: Endo symptoms are just part of a normal but heavy period.

Fact: Endometriosis is more than a heavy, painful period. It can cause infertility (inability to get pregnant), nerve irritation, scar tissue, and chronic pain or health conditions. 

Myth: Endo only affects the pelvis area (between the hips).

Fact: Endometriosis lesions are most frequently in the pelvic area. However, they can occur throughout the body.

Myth: Endo is always painful.

Fact: Some people don’t have pain with endo. Many find out they have it when seeing a healthcare provider for infertility.

Myth: Endo can be prevented.

Fact: There are ways to decrease the risk, including by eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, or choosing a lower-estrogen birth control method. However, there is no proven technique to prevent endo.

Myth: Endo always improves after hysterectomy or menopause.

Fact: Endo symptoms don’t always end with menopause (when the occurrence of periods have stopped for 12 or more months) as some estrogen is still being made and can cause the lesions to react. Lesions can also be missed during a hysterectomy. 

Abortion Options With Endometriosis

One abortion option involves taking medications at home. Surgical options occur in a healthcare provider’s office, hospital, or surgery center. The method depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy, your preference, and the services your provider offers.

Medication

Abortion through medication is an option early in pregnancy and can be considered as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. Over half of the abortions in the United States are performed with medications, usually within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Some of the medications used include:

• Mifeprex (mifepristone)
• Cytotec (misoprostol) 
• Femara (letrozole)
• Reditrex, Trexall, Xatmep (methotrexate)—usually for ectopic (outside the uterus) pregnancy 

Medication-induced abortions are safe for those with endometriosis. Risks and complications are the same for those with and without endometriosis. Along with bleeding and passing tissue, you may experience:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Chills
• Cramping

Surgical

A manual abortion is a surgical procedure performed five to 13 weeks after your last period. The healthcare provider uses a handheld syringe to generate suction. It takes five to 15 minutes and has a high success rate. 

A machine vacuum aspiration abortion is performed five to 12 weeks after your last period. The healthcare provider dilates (widens) the cervix and inserts a tube attached to a vacuum and pump. It uses suction to remove tissue from the uterus. 

Abortions are safe when performed by a trained healthcare professional who follows evidence-based guidelines. As with other surgical procedures, abortions have risks, including: 

• Pain
• Bleeding 
• Infection
• Anesthesia problems

Surgical abortions can cause damage to the endometrium (uterus or womb lining) and uterine scarring, but not endometriosis.

Access to Treatment

When abortions are performed by unlicensed persons or those who use outdated methods, the risks for severe complications increase significantly. You can find a verified abortion provider at Abortion Finder. 

In the United States, abortion laws vary among states. These laws are frequently changing. This state-by-state guide provides up-to-date information about the current laws in your state.

Telehealth is an option when you meet the criteria for a medication abortion. You can access abortion services via telehealth from various companies and organizations, such as: 

• Plan C 
• Hey Jane
• Choix
• Carafem
• Aid Access 

Keep in mind that some states ban telehealth for abortion care. If you have questions about laws, abortions for those under 18, or self-managed abortion and care, you can contact the Repro Legal Helpline at www.reprolegalhelpline.org or 844-868-2812.

Managing Endometriosis Pain

Treatment for endometriosis can range from lifestyle modifications to surgery. 

Lifestyle changes that may help with endometriosis include:

• Eating an anti-inflammatory diet
• Avoiding dehydration
• Exercise 
• Avoiding large amounts of caffeine or alcohol
• Reducing stress

For mild endometriosis cramping, you can also try the following:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen)
• Heat therapy (for cramping)

For endometriosis-related nerve, hip, or leg pain, the following options may help:

• Topical medications  
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS machine) 
• Cold packs 

For moderate to severe pain, your healthcare provider may suggest the following:

• Prescription anti-inflammatory or pain medications
• Hormonal therapy
• Physical therapy
• Nerve blocks
• Muscle relaxers
• Vaginal Valium (diazepam)
• Injections such as Chirocaine (levobupivacaine) or Botox, BTXA, Dysport (onabotulinumtoxin A)
• Surgery

Complementary and alternative treatments that may provide relief include:

• Chiropractics
• Acupuncture 
• Vitamin B1, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, cinnamon twig, or licorice root
• Boiron, Naturopathica (arnica) cream or pellets
• Isoflavones

Summary 

Endometriosis is endometrial-type tissue located outside the uterus. When it grows and bleeds, it causes pain and other symptoms. 

There is a misconception that abortions or miscarriages cause endometriosis. While the exact cause of endo is unclear, there is no evidence that either abortions or miscarriages cause it. 

Those with endometriosis can safely obtain an abortion through medications in early pregnancy or a surgical procedure. Abortions are safe when performed by a licensed healthcare provider who uses current evidence-based guidelines. 

A Word From Verywell

The information can be overwhelming if you are weighing your options regarding pregnancy. Keep in mind that abortions should only be administered by licensed healthcare providers. You can find a verified abortion provider at Abortion Finder. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure your safety.