While it’s possible for women to go through an abortion without complications, there is also a risk of infection after an abortion.
Knowing the warning signs is important so you can seek early medical intervention before the infection worsens.
At the Pregnancy Resource Center in Glenwood Springs, we are here to help you. Visit us if you’re navigating an unexpected pregnancy and considering your options, or if you’re struggling emotionally after an abortion.
Schedule an appointment today for a private, one-on-one conversation, and potentially an ultrasound if you need to confirm your pregnancy.
Why Infection Can Happen After an Abortion
Infection is a risk with both medical and surgical abortions. It can happen due to bacteria entering the uterus or if tissue remains in the uterus after the abortion, which is also known as an incomplete abortion.
Signs of infection don’t always happen immediately after an abortion; they can sometimes appear within a few days or weeks after the procedure. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to how your body feels and reacts to the abortion.
Common Warning Signs of Infection After Abortion
It’s key to know the difference between normal side effects of abortion and signs of possible infection. Some of these warning signs could indicate an infection:
- Fever that lasts more than four hours or begins in the days after taking misoprostol.
- Foul-smelling odor from the vagina
- Heavy bleeding, such as soaking two or more pads per hour for two consecutive hours
- Feeling generally very unwell
- Severe abdominal pain
- Pain that gets worse instead of better
- Fast heart rate
- Chills or body aches
It’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms, so you can receive the necessary assistance.
Untreated infections can cause further serious health complications down the line, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can increase the risk of infertility or an ectopic pregnancy, where an egg implants itself outside of the uterus.
Seek the Support You Need
After seeking urgent medical support, Pregnancy Resource Center in Glenwood Springs is here to give you the emotional support you need after an abortion. Our door is always open.
If you’re at the start of an unexpected pregnancy and considering your options, we can help you confirm your pregnancy.
We offer free and confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and STI testing, and operate a medical mobile unit in the community for easy access.
Schedule an appointment today. We are here for you.