How is an incomplete abortion even possible? One study suggests it happens in up to 40% of second-trimester abortions. An incomplete abortion can lead to bleeding, infection, and pelvic pain.

It’s essential to get a medical-grade pregnancy test and, if possible, an ultrasound before having an abortion or taking the abortion pill. Get a free pregnancy test, and if you qualify, a free ultrasound at Sumter Pregnancy Center. 

What is an Incomplete Abortion?

When parts of a pregnancy remain in your body after an abortion, it’s called an incomplete abortion. Sometimes, a woman won’t experience symptoms for days, weeks, or even months after the pregnancy ends.

How Do I Know If I’ve Had an Incomplete Abortion?

According to experts, incomplete abortions are treated through follow-up visits to your abortion provider. The best methods of diagnosis are a pregnancy test to see if the hCG hormone remains in your system and an ultrasound.

Possible signs include:

  • Continued vaginal bleeding, sometimes severe
  • Fever
  • Infection
  • Lower abdominal pain and/or pelvic pain (cramping)

Can I Have an Incomplete Abortion With the Abortion Pill?

The Mayo Clinic lists an incomplete abortion as the first potential risk when using the abortion pill method (also known as a medical abortion). The FDA highly regulates the first drug, mifepristone.

They have approved the use of it through ten weeks of pregnancy only (70 days from the first day of your last menstrual period). The Mayo Clinic recommends not using it past 63 days and suggests some types of medical abortion are not performed after 49 days.

Why would there be a time limit on the use of the abortion pill method? The drugs’ effectiveness decreases the farther along you are in your pregnancy. 

How Can Sumter Pregnancy Center Assist Me?

We can provide you with free pregnancy services to verify your pregnancy. You can conveniently contact us by filling out our online contact form, calling 803-773-8858, or texting 803-464-1700. We’re here for you.