Monitoring yourself for post-abortion complications is crucial, but it can be difficult when you don’t know what exactly to look for.
Infection is one risk when undergoing an abortion procedure. The warning signs can vary, so it’s crucial to know them and act as soon as you notice a concerning physical change.
We’re committed to your well-being. It helps to speak to someone who understands the post-abortion recovery process. Schedule a confidential appointment today.
Know What to Look For
Every woman will have a different experience and varying side effects. The procedure she has also plays a role in how she feels afterward.
Medical Abortion
Though medical abortion always causes cramping and bleeding, some women may experience fever or chills, while others may have an upset stomach.
Warning signs of a complication like infection after medical abortion are:
- Heavy bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours in a row
- Bad pain in the stomach area or pelvis
- Chills or body aches
- Fast heart rate
- Fever that lasts more than four hours or that starts in the days after you take misoprostol
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion results in light vaginal bleeding or spotting and mild cramping in the days after the procedure.
You may be experiencing a post-surgical abortion infection if you have any of the following:
- Bleeding that’s heavy enough that you need to change pads every hour
- Lasting dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fever
- Cramps lasting more than 48 hours
- Pain that gets worse instead of better
- Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
If you suspect an infection, contacting your healthcare provider and seeking immediate medical treatment is critical. Prompt treatment can prevent more serious complications and long-term effects.
Informed Choices Women’s Center is here if you desire additional emotional support or want to talk about your experience.
No-Cost, Confidential Support
We’re here for you if you’ve had an abortion and want to talk through your experience. You aren’t alone; we provide compassionate, confidential support. During your initial appointment, you’ll speak with a registered nurse who will direct you to the right service.
Make an appointment today to learn how we can help.
You can also call one of our two locations for faster scheduling: Mountain Home (870-424-4673) and Harrison (870-280-3169).
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.