After an abortion, it’s normal to have questions about what recovery should look like and what’s considered normal. 

While some discomfort is expected, certain symptoms are not normal and should not be ignored.

Infections after abortion are a known risk, and they can develop without obvious warning. 

Because most women are not monitored by a provider in the days following the procedure, you must know which symptoms require prompt medical attention.

Warning Signs of Post-Abortion Infection

Here are warning signs to watch for following a medical abortion or a surgical abortion.

1. Excessive Bleeding

Some bleeding is normal after an abortion, but certain thresholds may be a sign of a problem. If you are soaking more than two pads per hour after a medical abortion, or more than one pad per hour after a surgical abortion, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.

Any bleeding that worsens rather than tapers in the days after the procedure is also a concern.

2. Persistent Fever

A fever can be a sign that your body is fighting an infection. 

After a medical abortion, notify your doctor right away if you develop a fever after taking misoprostol, or if a fever lasts more than 24 hours. 

Following a surgical abortion, any fever should be reported to your provider promptly; it’s important to have it checked rather than waiting it out.

3. Foul-Smelling Discharge

Some vaginal discharge is a normal part of recovery, but a foul or unusual odor is not. After either a medical or surgical abortion, discharge that smells bad can indicate that an infection is already developing. Contact your healthcare provider as soon as you notice it.

4. Severe or Worsening Pain

Mild cramping is expected during recovery, but intense or worsening pain may indicate something isn’t right.

Severe abdominal or back pain that does not improve, or cramping that continues beyond 48 hours after a surgical abortion, may indicate retained tissue or developing infection. 

Either situation may require medical attention.

Why Prompt Treatment Matters

Post-abortion infections often stem from pregnancy tissue that was not fully expelled, a condition called incomplete abortion. Left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to serious, long-term harm.

Possible complications include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can damage the reproductive organs and increase the risk of infertility or future ectopic pregnancies. 

In some cases, untreated infections can become serious and require urgent medical care.

We’re Here for You

At Women’s Resource Center, we are committed to supporting your health and well-being at every stage. 

Whether you have questions about post-abortion recovery or you are facing an unexpected pregnancy and want to explore your options, we are here to help. 

We offer free, confidential services, including pregnancy testing and ultrasounds, in a caring and non-judgmental setting.

You do not have to face this alone.

Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.