If you’re considering an abortion, it’s essential to understand all the potential risks, including the possibility of an incomplete abortion. Being informed can help you make the best decisions about your health and well-being.
We’ll detail the signs and risks of an incomplete abortion that empower you to recognize if something isn’t right and you must seek prompt medical care. We provide clear information so you can feel supported and confident as you navigate this decision process.
What is an Incomplete Abortion?
An incomplete abortion happens when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, posing a severe risk of infection that can become life-threatening if not treated. It is also known as retained products of conception (RPOC).
Taking abortion drugs leads to cramping in the stomach area and vaginal bleeding—symptoms that can also occur with an incomplete abortion. This overlap in symptoms can make it challenging to tell between typical side effects and signs of an incomplete abortion.
Incomplete Abortion Signs
While some bleeding after an abortion is expected, heavy bleeding or blood clots form during an incomplete abortion. Heavy bleeding can be defined as soaking two pads or more an hour for two hours in a row.
Other symptoms may include:
- Enlarged uterus.
- Fever.
- Hypomenorrhea (light or infrequent menstrual periods).
- Infection.
- Open ectocervix (the opening between the vagina and uterus should be small or closed after pregnancy).
- Pelvic pain.
It’s advised to seek immediate medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, high fever, nausea and vomiting, or severe pelvic pain.
Know The Risks
An incomplete abortion is only one of the possible risks involved with an abortion. Getting fully informed is the best way to safeguard your health if you’re dealing with an unexpected pregnancy.
Visit the Women’s Resource Center for information and access to no-cost pregnancy services. Let us help you navigate this crucial time by providing details about your pregnancy and the scope of your pregnancy options.
Contact us to make a confidential appointment today.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.