The reproductive systems of both men and women play a significant role in pregnancy. In women, the reproductive system is responsible for the production of ova. It also enables a woman to engage in sexual intercourse and when fertilization takes place, it nourishes the egg until it develops into a baby. Childbirth is also made possible because of the reproductive system. Problems that arise in the reproductive system can hamper fertility and affect a woman's ability to become pregnant. There are various reproductive health problems that can occur in women. These issues can also affect the overall health of an individual. Reproductive health depends on several factors such as age, genetics and lifestyle. Poor nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle, intake of certain medications and exposure to toxins can affect the condition of the reproductive system. In many cases such problems are treatable.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

There are different types of female reproductive diseases. One such condition is vulvovaginitis in which the vulva and vagina become inflamed. It may be caused by poor hygiene and symptoms include itching and redness. Non-menstrual vaginal bleeding is another problem that some women face. It may occur due to obstruction by a foreign body or because of urethral prolapse. In some cases the fallopian tubes and ovaries can get affected. In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg starts growing inside the fallopian tube instead of the uterus. In Endometriosis, the uterine tissues start growing outside the uterus and lead to bleeding and pain. Other reproductive problems include ovarian tumors and Ovarian Cyst. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common reproductive complication which occurs due to a hormonal imbalance. The health of the reproductive system may also get affected when an abortion occurs. Abortion health effects include excessive bleeding, infection, cervical damage, puncture of the uterus and in rare cases, even death.

Abortion and Mental Health
In most cases, abortion is not only a medical procedure; it is also an event that can alter the life of a woman to a great extent. It can bring about considerable changes which impact the physical, mental and emotional state of the individual.

After the procedure, bleeding usually occurs. This can be excessive in case there is tearing or puncture of the cervix. Such severe bleeding is referred to as hemorrhaging and in some cases; surgery may be required to correct the problem. There is also a risk of infection if any fetal part remains inside the uterus. Infection due to insertion of surgical instruments may also occur in rare cases. One of the major risks involved in abortion procedures is perforation of the uterus. In some cases this can necessitate removal of the uterus. There is also a possibility of the internal organs getting damaged during the procedure. One of the most common abortion side effects is scarring due to the various instruments used to perform the procedure.

Some women may even suffer from allergic reactions to the general anesthesia used during the abortion. There are also certain other risks of abortion such as breast cancer. Studies show that many women are affected with breast cancer following an abortion. There is also a risk of premature deliveries occurring in the future and this involves some other complications such as incomplete brain development, eye problems and bowel diseases in the baby. Some women may also suffer from infertility after an abortion.

Depression after abortion is also common as there may be feelings of grief or guilt. In some cases eating disorders, alcohol or drug dependence, severe anxiety and suicidal tendencies may develop. Post abortion stress syndrome is a term used to classify the symptoms of trauma that some women experience after having an abortion.