Abortion is a medical procedure that carries potential risks, including infection. Infections can develop if bacteria enter the uterus during or after the procedure or if pregnancy tissue remains in the body. Recognizing the warning signs early is essential for protecting your health and preventing serious complications.
At Women’s Resource Center, we provide no-cost pregnancy services, information, and support for those exploring their pregnancy options. Contact us to learn all the ways we’re here for you.
Continue reading to find out more about the warning signs of infection after an abortion.
Understanding Abortion Procedures and Risks
Abortion is performed in two ways: medical abortion (the abortion pill) and surgical abortion. Both involve significant changes to the body, making it essential to be aware of possible complications.
A medical abortion involves two drugs: mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from progressing, while misoprostol induces contractions to expel the pregnancy from the uterus.
A surgical abortion uses suction or surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. The method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is.
Cramping and bleeding are common after both types of abortion, but infection can develop if bacteria enter the reproductive system or if tissue is not fully expelled.
Signs of Infection After an Abortion
If you have had a medical abortion, watch for:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours in a row)
- Severe pelvic or abdominal pain
- Fever lasting more than four hours or starting days after taking misoprostol
- Chills, body aches, or a rapid heart rate
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
For surgical abortion, warning signs include:
- Excessive bleeding, requiring you to change pads every hour
- Dizziness or lightheadedness that does not improve
- Cramps lasting longer than 48 hours
- Pain worsening instead of improving
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
In some cases, an infection may result from an incomplete abortion, where pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
We’re Here to Support You
At Women’s Resource Center, we provide no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and education to help you make informed choices about your pregnancy and health.
If you have questions or concerns, we’re here to listen and provide factual, compassionate support so you can move forward with confidence. Schedule an appointment with us today.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.