It is uncommon to get an infection after an abortion, but if you are concerned, here is what you can look out for.
In this blog you will find information about:
- Antibiotics after an abortion
- Serious complications to look out for after an abortion
Antibiotics after an abortion
We may prescribe you antibiotics after an abortion to help minimise the risk of getting an infection.
If you have any concerns at all, or you need help taking your antibiotics (if you have been given them), please call our 24-hour aftercare line on 0345 122 1441.
Please ensure that following your abortion, you read through our aftercare advice and tips for your recovery after an abortion.
What to look out for after an abortion
Infection after a surgical abortion
Serious complications have warning signs. Please call us straight away on 0345 122 1441 if you experience:
- Very heavy bleeding that soaks through more than 2 sanitary pads an hour. These pads should be suitable for a heavy flow
- Abdominal pain or discomfort that is not helped by pain relief medication, or by a heat pad
- Vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant
- Feeling hot and shivery with a high temperature that is 38°C or above
- Generally feeling unwell
Infection after a medical abortion
Infection after an abortion is uncommon, but if it occurs it is easily treated. If you have any of the following symptoms, please call our 24-hour aftercare line on 0345 122 1441:
- Vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant or is an unusual colour for you.
- Fever, feeling shivery or like you have the flu lasting more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol.
- Lower abdominal pain that persists or becomes worse after passing the pregnancy.
Sepsis can be caused by an infection and whilst after an abortion it is rare, it can be serious. Symptoms of sepsis can be like having the flu at first.
If you have any of the signs below it is important to seek urgent medical advice:
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Extreme shivering
- Severe muscle pain
- Being unable to urinate
- Severe breathlessness
- Cold, clammy and pale or blotchy skin
- Loss of consciousness
To learn more about sepsis – including symptoms to look out for and what to do if you experience these symptoms – visit The UK Sepsis Trust’s website.
You can always get back in touch with your abortion provider, should you have any questions during or after your treatment. They are always there to support you. If you have had treatment with MSI UK and have any abortion aftercare questions, you can call our 24-hour dedicated aftercare line on 03451221441.
Get in touch
At MSI Reproductive Choices, we are here for you and there are a number of ways you can contact us.
You can always get in touch should you have any questions about our services, would like to book an appointment or you have had treatment with us and want aftercare support.
