Abortion, whether medical or surgical, is a serious medical procedure that comes with risks, including the potential for infection. Understanding the warning signs of infection is crucial for safeguarding your health, especially during a time that may already be physically and emotionally challenging.
Azar House is here to support you through an unplanned pregnancy. If you’re exploring your options or have concerns about your health, we offer free, confidential appointments to provide the information and care you need.
Types of Abortion
There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical. Each comes with its own process and potential risks.
- Medical Abortion: This involves taking two drugs. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy, while misoprostol induces contractions to expel the pregnancy.
- Surgical Abortion: This method uses a combination of suction, drugs, or surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus and is typically performed in later stages of pregnancy.
Both types often result in cramping and bleeding. However, recognizing the signs of infection after these procedures is essential for protecting your health.
Warning Signs of Infection
After a medical abortion, watch for these symptoms:
- Heavy bleeding, such as soaking two or more pads per hour for multiple hours.
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Chills, body aches, or fever lasting more than four hours.
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
After a surgical abortion, signs may include:
- Heavy bleeding requiring frequent pad changes.
- Persistent dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Cramps lasting longer than 48 hours or worsening pain.
- Fever or foul-smelling discharge.
Infections may also occur due to an incomplete abortion, where tissue remains in the uterus. If something feels off, listen to your body and seek medical care immediately.
Get Support
If you’re navigating an unplanned pregnancy or have questions about your health, our compassionate team is here to help you make informed decisions.
At Azar House, we provide free pregnancy testing to support you during this critical time. After a positive test, we can help you obtain a limited obstetrical ultrasound.
Contact us today to schedule a free appointment and get the care and resources you deserve.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.