Knowing what to look for after an abortion procedure can prevent complications and protect your long-term health. As with any procedure, abortion has risks—infection being one of them.
We’ll explain the warning signs of infection below. If you’re still deciding on a pregnancy option, contact New Beginnings of Winchester for free and confidential information.
Understanding the Signs of Infection
When you think of infection, symptoms like chills or fever may come to mind. Both medical abortion and surgical abortion produce certain signs of complications like infection.
Knowing these warning signs can help you receive prompt treatment.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion uses drugs to end a pregnancy. While these drugs always cause abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, risks can occur.
Potential signs of infection can include:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours in a row)
- Bad stomach or pelvic pain
- Chills or body aches
- Fast heart rate
- Fever lasting more than 4 hours or starting after you take misoprostol
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion uses drugs, surgical tools, and/or suctioning. Mild cramping and spotting or light bleeding can occur after the procedure.
Potential signs of infection include:
- 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
Your health matters. Any concerning signs and symptoms should receive medical attention to preserve your well-being.
Free Services
New Beginnings of Winchester provides free and confidential services for those with unexpected pregnancies. Whether you’ve had an abortion and need a listening ear or are still weighing your options, we’re here for you.
Make an appointment today. You are not alone.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.