If you’ve had a recent medical or surgical abortion and are noticing some signs, such as continuing pregnancy symptoms, fever, or ongoing pelvic pain that isn’t disappearing, it is important to seek medical advice since you could be at risk of an incomplete abortion.
An incomplete abortion is when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after an abortion. Additional medical evaluation or treatment may be needed.
Metro Women’s Center is here for you if you need someone to talk to. We offer no-cost confidential appointments for women going through pregnancy, considering their options, or who are struggling post-abortion.
Schedule your appointment.
What Causes An Incomplete Abortion?
Several factors may influence the likelihood of an incomplete abortion. One factor is gestational age, as medical abortion is FDA-approved through approximately 10 weeks of pregnancy.
A medical abortion, or commonly known as the abortion pill, performed outside of the guidelines may affect how it works. Individual health factors and differences in how the body responds can also play a role.
Signs That May Require Medical Attention
It’s important to understand that the abortion pill and surgical abortion both come with side effects. The main ones are vaginal bleeding and cramping.
If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, however, it could indicate you are having an incomplete abortion. It’s important to seek prompt medical attention straight away if this is the case:
Heavy or prolonged bleeding:
- Soaking two or more pads per hour for two consecutive hours
- Bleeding that does not begin to slow or improve over 4 hours
Significant pain:
- Severe or worsening abdominal or pelvic pain that does not improve
Possible signs of infection:
- Fever lasting several hours or developing days after the abortion
- Chills, body aches, or a general feeling of illness
- Vaginal discharge with a strong or unpleasant odor
Ongoing or unresolved symptoms:
- Symptoms that persist without improvement over time
- Continued pregnancy-related symptoms, such as nausea or breast tenderness, that do not begin to lessen
Why An Incomplete Abortion Needs Urgent Treatment
When pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, medical evaluation and treatment may be needed rather than waiting for the body to resolve the situation on its own.
Without timely care, complications can develop, including infection or, in rare cases, sepsis. Other possible concerns may include heavy blood loss leading to anemia, prolonged pelvic pain, or, less commonly, Asherman’s Syndrome.
We Are Here For You
If you are experiencing the above symptoms, please contact your emergency medical provider immediately.
Metro Women’s Center offers confidential, no-cost pregnancy tests and ultrasound referrals. Our team can provide information about pregnancy-related concerns and help you understand your next steps.
If you would like to speak with someone or schedule an appointment, contact our center today.