An incomplete abortion can occur after using misoprostol, a medication commonly prescribed to induce a medical abortion (in combination with mifepristone or on its own). It’s essential to recognize the signs of an incomplete abortion as this condition may require further medical intervention. If you suspect you have an incomplete abortion, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Common signs and symptoms of an incomplete abortion include:
- Persistent Vaginal Bleeding: If you continue to experience heavy vaginal bleeding for an extended period, especially if it lasts for more than a week, it may indicate an incomplete abortion.
- Passing Clots: Passing blood clots, especially large ones, can be a sign of an incomplete abortion.
- Abdominal Pain or Cramping: Ongoing or severe abdominal pain or cramping can be indicative of retained pregnancy tissue.
- Fever or Chills: An elevated body temperature, fever, or chills can be a sign of infection, which may occur as a result of an incomplete abortion.
- Foul-Smelling Discharge: A foul or unpleasant odor from vaginal discharge can be a sign of infection.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak may be associated with an incomplete abortion and related complications.
- Incomplete Passage of Pregnancy Tissue: If you have not passed all of the pregnancy tissue, you may notice recognizable pregnancy-related material in the blood or discharge.
- Loss of Pregnancy Symptoms: If you had pregnancy symptoms (such as breast tenderness, nausea, or fatigue) and suddenly notice a loss of these symptoms, it could be a sign of an incomplete abortion.
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms after using misoprostol for a medical abortion, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can assess your condition, perform necessary tests (such as an ultrasound), and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include a follow-up dose of misoprostol, a surgical procedure to complete the abortion (such as dilation and curettage or aspiration), or treatment for any associated infections. Timely medical attention is essential to ensure your safety and well-being.
Dr. Richard Young is a board certified cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon
As one of the nation’s leading innovators in aesthetic surgery of the face, hand, breast and body, and a pioneer of reconstructive surgery and stem cell procedures, Dr. Richard Young is certified by the Board of Plastic Surgery and the Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.
by Richard Young
Reviewed by Richard Young
approved by Richard Young
Written by Dr Richard Young. The article was written and approved by Dr Richard Young, who specializes in plastic surgery.
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