According to the Mayo Clinic, an incomplete abortion is at the top of the list of risks with a medication abortion. The abortion pill method is also known as a medication or medical abortion. Be aware of the signs and symptoms so you can take immediate action.
Two Types of Abortion
There are two types of abortion: medication and surgical.
Medication Abortion
A medication abortion (the abortion pill method) uses two drugs to end a pregnancy. This method has been FDA-approved to end a pregnancy through 70 days gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period).
Surgical Abortion
If you know you’ve been pregnant for longer than 70 days (10 weeks), you may require a surgical abortion. An abortion doctor uses a vacuum or suctioning device to remove a pregnancy surgically. Depending on how far along you are, the doctor will also need to use a scraping tool and forceps.
What Is An Incomplete Abortion?
Terminating a pregnancy by abortion means the abortion doctor must remove all parts of the pregnancy from the uterus. If any of the pregnancy remains inside your body, you would have an incomplete abortion.
An incomplete abortion can lead to long-term medical issues like infection, infertility, or even death if not taken care of quickly.
Signs Of An Incomplete Abortion
Whether you’ve already had an abortion or are learning about the risks, knowing the signs of an incomplete abortion is essential. You need to be completely informed and know what to expect.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), some signs and possible complications of incomplete abortion include…
- Fever (100.4° F or higher longer than 4 hours)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
- Moderate to severe vaginal bleeding lasting days or possibly weeks (including passing blood clots and tissue)
- Lower abdominal and/or pelvic pain (which may radiate to the lower back, buttocks, genitalia, and perineum)
- Hemorrhagic shock, where the body begins to shut down due to heavy blood loss (a medical emergency)
Before An Abortion
If you’re considering an abortion, come to AscentCare Pregnancy Services first. We’ll confirm your pregnancy with lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited obstetrical ultrasound at no cost to you.
We can review abortion procedures, side effects, and risks. If you’re interested in understanding all your options and need someone to talk to, we’re here for you, too.
AscentCare is a safe, judgment-free place to share your concerns and ask questions. Sign up online or call or text (518) 739-3388.