Abortion carries risks that all women should know about, especially those considering the procedure. One of the common risks that can occur following a medical or surgical abortion is an incomplete abortion, which occurs when some of the pregnancy tissue is retained in the uterus.
You may be experiencing an incomplete abortion if you have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Fever or chills
- Cramping
- Heavy bleeding
- Abdominal or lower back pain
- Passing large clots through vaginal bleeding
- Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
How Do I Know When to Seek Medical Treatment?
If you’ve had a medical or surgical abortion and are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, it’s best to seek medical attention. You should go to the nearest emergency room and speak with a doctor immediately.
If left untreated, an incomplete abortion can lead to:
- Sepsis
- Infection
- Infertility
- Hemorrhage
What Is the Treatment for an Incomplete Abortion?
When you arrive at the emergency room, medical providers will conduct a thorough exam and select one of several treatment options to resolve the issue.
The type of treatment for an incomplete abortion depends on each case. Sometimes, medical providers use medication to dilate the cervix and allow any remaining pregnancy tissue to pass.
Other times, medical providers may decide to perform surgery in the form of a dilation and curettage procedure. During this surgical procedure, medication or small instruments are used to dilate the cervix, and either a curette or a gentle suctioning technique is used to remove the remaining pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
Find Out More Helpful Information
If you are considering abortion and want to learn more about your risks or alternatives, HopePlace can help. We also offer post-abortion support to help you get the emotional care you need.
Contact us today to schedule a free appointment. You matter to us!