Abortion is a procedure that carries real health risks, and infection is one of the most serious.
Knowing what warning signs to watch for can help protect your health and prevent complications from becoming life-threatening.
After an abortion, most women are not monitored by a health provider. That means the responsibility of recognizing concerning symptoms and reaching out for help falls entirely on you.
Here is what to look for following a medical abortion or a surgical abortion.
Warning Signs of Post-Abortion Infection
Heavy Bleeding
Some bleeding is normal after an abortion, but excessive bleeding is not. If you are soaking through more than two pads per hour following a medical abortion, or more than one pad per hour after a surgical abortion, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Bleeding that worsens rather than improves over the days is also a red flag.
Fever
A fever is a signal your body sends when something is wrong. After a medical abortion, contact your doctor if you develop a fever that lasts more than 24 hours or that begins after taking misoprostol.
Any fever following a surgical abortion should be reported to your provider promptly. Do not wait to see if it passes on its own.
Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge
Some vaginal discharge is expected as your body recovers, but an unusual or foul odor is not normal.
Whether you had a medical or surgical abortion, foul-smelling discharge can be an early indicator of infection. Reach out to your healthcare provider as soon as you notice it.
Severe Abdominal or Back Pain
Mild cramping is a typical part of recovery, but severe or worsening pain is not.
If you are experiencing intense abdominal or back pain that does not improve, or cramping that continues beyond 48 hours after a surgical abortion, seek medical evaluation without delay.
What Happens If an Infection Is Not Treated?
Infections after abortion often develop when pregnancy tissue is not fully removed, a condition known as an incomplete abortion.
Without treatment, an infection can progress rapidly and cause serious health risks.
Left untreated, an infection can develop into:
- Sepsis, a widespread infection that can quickly become life-threatening
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy due to scar tissue buildup in the fallopian tubes
- Infertility from scarring that interferes with implantation
- Chronic pelvic pain during ovulation or intercourse
- Abscess formation in the ovaries or fallopian tubes
An infection can also develop into Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause lasting damage to your reproductive organs.
We Are Here for You
Whether you are currently pregnant and trying to understand your options, or you have already had an abortion and have questions about your recovery, New Beginnings Pregnancy Center is here to help.
Our trained staff can provide free, confidential pregnancy services, including lab-quality pregnancy tests, ultrasound scans, and consultations.
We are also available to answer your questions and walk alongside you, no matter where you are in your journey.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.