Getting an abortion can lead to health issues, one of the most severe being an infection.
If you’ve had an abortion or are thinking about getting one, it’s essential to know the signs of incomplete abortion, which can turn into an infection.
This article will tell you what you need to know about infections after an abortion. If you’re feeling very unwell after an abortion, go straight to the nearest urgent care or emergency room and tell them you had an abortion so they can give you the proper treatment.
Know The Warning Signs
Both medical and surgical abortions can lead to infections.
Infections can sometimes occur due to incomplete abortion, which is when some of the pregnancy and related tissue remains in your uterus instead of being fully expelled.
A pelvic infection (pelvic inflammatory disease) can also occur due to the spreading of existing STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, deeper into the reproductive system during an abortion.
To prevent infection, Mayo Clinic recommends not inserting anything into your vagina after an abortion, such as a tampon, until your healthcare provider says it’s okay. You may need to wait until two weeks after, or your healthcare provider may give another recommendation.
Some warning signs to look out for include:
- Heavy bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
There are a variety of complications that can arise if you show these signs. If the infection is due to the remaining tissue from the abortion, a doctor might need to perform a procedure to clear out your uterus.
If anything feels wrong, it’s important to get medical help immediately.
Before Seeking An Abortion
You deserve to be fully informed about your pregnancy, get all the necessary details about abortion procedures, and receive access to quality pregnancy services.
Hope House Women’s Clinic provides free pregnancy testing and an ultrasound if your test returns a positive result.
An ultrasound unlocks vital details, such as:
- The viability of pregnancy (growing and has a heartbeat)
- The location of pregnancy (if it’s located within your uterus)
- How far along you are (gestational age)
Reach out to us today to schedule a free and confidential appointment in a safe environment.