What Are the Signs of an Incomplete Abortion?

If you are curious what an incomplete abortion is, a common misconception is that it is an unsuccessful abortion and the pregnancy is still developing. 

However, an incomplete abortion means the pregnancy has been successfully terminated, but the fetus and pregnancy tissue have not been completely expelled. If left untreated, it can develop into a serious infection. 

Read the article below, and if you believe you are demonstrating the symptoms of an incomplete abortion, seek medical care immediately.

What Are the Symptoms of an Incomplete Abortion?

According to National Library of Medicine, some of the symptoms include:

• Heavy cramps
• Vaginal bleeding
• Passing of blood clots through the vagina

According to MedLine, heavy bleeding can be some of the most obvious signs. You should seek immediate help if you bleed enough to soak through two thick full-size sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours. This can be caused by mifepristone, one of the drugs used in a medication abortion.

How Likely Is an Incomplete Abortion?

The chance of an incomplete abortion does seem to increase according to how far along you are in your pregnancy. According to a study conducted on almost 5,000 induced abortions, an incomplete abortion was the most common complication related to medical abortions greater than twelve weeks.

 

In Finland, of 24,006 adult participants who underwent a medical abortion, 10.2% experienced an incomplete abortion. 

Next Steps

Your health should be your top concern if you are worried that your symptoms match those of an incomplete abortion. Don’t wait to seek medical care, because incomplete abortions can lead to heavy bleeding or severe sepsis, according to the National Library of Medicine.

 

If you have not yet had an abortion, we recommend first scheduling a limited ultrasound at First Care for no cost. We can verify the age and viability of your pregnancy, and screen for complications like ectopic pregnancy.

We offer complimentary pregnancy services, as well as the opportunity to learn and discuss all of your options. We are here to support you, so contact us today!