Signs of an Incomplete Abortion in Maryland

An unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming, and some women turn to abortion—whether surgical or with abortion pills—without realizing the potential risks. One serious complication is an incomplete abortion, when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after the procedure.

At Care Net Pregnancy Center of Frederick, Maryland, we want women to have accurate information about their health, so they can recognize warning signs and know where to find support.

What Is an Incomplete Abortion?

An incomplete abortion happens when not all pregnancy tissue is expelled from the uterus. This can occur after a medication abortion (abortion pills) or a surgical abortion. When tissue remains, it can lead to infection, heavy bleeding, or other serious medical issues.

Common Signs of an Incomplete Abortion

If you or someone you know has recently had an abortion, watch for these warning signs:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding 
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  
• Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms
  
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Feeling ill or generally unwell
  
• Ongoing pregnancy symptoms (nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue that continues after the abortion)

Why It’s Important to Seek Help Immediately

Life may be crazy at the moment, but it’s important to pay attention to what’s going on with your body. Complications of an incomplete abortion may include:

• Severe infection (sepsis)
  
• Hemorrhaging (dangerous blood loss)
  
• Future fertility issues
  
• Life-threatening conditions if untreated
  
  

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical care right away.

How Care Net Pregnancy Center of Frederick, Maryland Can Support You

At Care Net Pregnancy Center of Frederick, we provide:

• Free pregnancy testing
• Limited ultrasounds to confirm if a pregnancy is still present
• Confidential consultations in a safe, supportive environment
  
  

While we do not perform or refer for abortions, our compassionate staff is here to help you understand your options and connect you with the care you may need.

You’re Not Alone

Facing an incomplete abortion can feel frightening, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Contact Care Net Pregnancy Center of Frederick, Maryland today for free and confidential help. Your health and safety matter.

References:

1. World Health Organization. (2022). Abortion care guideline. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240039483
2. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Abortion: What you can expect. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/abortion/about/pac-20395195
3. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Incomplete Abortion: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23345-incomplete-abortion
4. MedlinePlus. (2023). Abortion - incomplete. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002912.htm
5. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Endometritis. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/endometritis

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2023). Induced Abortion. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion