Maintaining your health after a medical procedure or pregnancy loss is essential. While your body begins to heal naturally, it’s important to understand what normal recovery looks like and when symptoms may signal a complication. A post-abortion infection, often caused by retained tissue or bacteria entering the reproductive tract, is a serious medical condition that requires prompt care. Knowing the warning signs empowers you to protect your health and future fertility.
At Choices Family Resource Center, we provide a professional, health-centered environment where you can receive accurate information about recovery. Because some symptoms of infection can resemble normal healing, medical evaluation is the most reliable way to ensure your body is recovering properly.
Schedule a free, confidential appointment. Our trained team can provide assistance to support your recovery.
How Post-Abortion Infections Can Occur
Infection can occur when bacteria enter the uterus or reproductive tract during or after an abortion. This may happen if tissue remains in the uterus, if the cervix stays open longer than expected, or if bacteria are introduced during the recovery period. Infections can occur after both surgical and medical abortions.
A medical abortion uses prescribed FDA-approved medications to end a pregnancy, and infection may develop if the pregnancy tissue does not fully pass or if symptoms go unrecognized. Monitoring recovery and seeking medical evaluation when concerns arise is important.
Fever and Chills
Mild temperature fluctuations can sometimes occur after hormonal shifts, but a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is a key warning sign of infection. Fever accompanied by chills, body aches, or flu-like symptoms may indicate a systemic infection.
Changes in Vaginal Discharge
Bleeding and discharge are common during recovery, but the characteristics of that discharge matter. Contact a healthcare provider if you notice:
- Foul or strong odors, which may indicate bacterial growth
- Yellow or green discharge, rather than the expected red or brown
These changes can signal an underlying infection.
Ongoing or Worsening Pelvic Pain
Cramping is expected as the uterus contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size. However, pain that worsens instead of improving, or sharp pelvic tenderness that interferes with daily activity, is not normal. This may signal retained tissue or pelvic inflammation.
Heavy or Prolonged Bleeding
Seek medical care if you are soaking two or more maxi pads per hour for two consecutive hours or passing large clots (larger than a lemon). Retained tissue increases the risk of infection, and an ultrasound is often the best way to assess recovery.
Supporting a Safe Recovery
At Choices Family Resource Center, we offer a safe, confidential space to discuss symptoms and support you as you move through your recovery journey.
Contact us today to schedule your free appointment. We are here to provide the professional care, clarity, and peace of mind you deserve as you heal.
Choices Family Resource Center does not provide or refer for abortions.