A review of a large amount of research in Canada found that women who had an abortion in the first or second trimester had a 35% increased risk of a low birth weight baby and a 36% raised risk of a pre-term baby in later pregnancies. Women who had more than one abortion, had a 72% increased risk for LBW and 93% for PT: “In this systematic review and meta-analyses of 37 studies, we identified significantly increased unadjusted and adjusted odds of LBW and PT births among women with a history of I-TOP compared to women without such a history. The risks of LBW and PT births increased with increasing numbers of I-TOPs.” They conclude that “This information is important from public and health practitioners’ point of view. Estimates in the 1970s indicated that more than a million abortions are performed in the US per year. Of these, more than 75% of women wish or get pregnant again. These women should know the risks associated with I-TOP not only for their health but also for their future reproductive potential. A properly obtained consent legally mandates explanation of these risks to women and ensuring their understanding.”

International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Shah P, Zao J on behalf of Knowledge Synthesis Group of Determinants of preterm/LBW births. “Induced termination of pregnancy and low birthweight and preterm birth: a systematic review and meta-analyses.” BJOG 2009;116:1425–1442