There are certain side effects that you can expect after an abortion. However, complications can also occur after the procedure. One possibility is an incomplete abortion, which occurs when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus.
Knowing the warning signs matters because this complication can require additional treatment. If you’re still considering abortion and want to learn more, schedule an appointment with Brazos Pregnancy Center today.
What Does an Incomplete Abortion Mean?
An incomplete abortion can occur following either a medical or surgical abortion. It means that some pregnancy tissue remains inside the uterus rather than being completely expelled or removed.
Symptoms can vary, so you shouldn’t try to diagnose the condition yourself. A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether further treatment is necessary.
Symptoms That Warrant Medical Attention
According to the Cleveland Clinic, retained pregnancy tissue can cause symptoms including:
- Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Fever
- An enlarged or tender uterus
- Missed menstrual period
Bleeding and cramping will occur after an abortion, so the presence of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean the abortion was incomplete. What matters is their severity, duration, and whether other concerning symptoms develop.
Seek immediate medical attention for severe or worsening symptoms, particularly very heavy bleeding, fainting, or severe pain.
Why an Incomplete Abortion Needs Treatment
Pregnancy tissue remaining in the uterus can cause various complications, including continued bleeding and other health problems. Heavy or prolonged blood loss can lead to anemia, while retained tissue can also increase the risk of infection.
Treatment depends on your individual situation. A medical professional may use ultrasound and other tests to determine whether tissue remains and to recommend appropriate treatment.
Waiting out concerning symptoms on your own could allow a complication to become more serious. It’s critical to seek immediate care if you suspect something is wrong; being proactive is the best way to safeguard your health.
Know More About Your Pregnancy Beforehand
If you haven’t had an abortion but are considering one, learning more about your pregnancy beforehand is worthwhile. An ultrasound can provide information that a pregnancy test cannot, including approximately how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus.
Brazos Pregnancy Center can offer an ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test if you are fewer than 13 weeks along and have not yet started prenatal care. We’re also available to help you learn more about your options and address your questions.
Schedule your free, confidential appointment today to get started.
Brazos Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.