INFORMATION FOR EARLY ABORTION PATIENTS

Because your abortion was performed less than 7 weeks since your last menstrual period, it is very important to have a follow-up pelvic examination 2-3 weeks after surgery. The risks associated with early abortion include:

INCOMPLETE ABORTION

In 1 per 1000 cases, tissue is retained inside of the uterus, leading to an incomplete abortion. This problem can cause excessive bleeding and/or infection. If this complication occurs, you may require a repeat aspiration, a D&C in a clinic or hospital, or other tests and treatment.

FAILURE TO END PREGNANCY

Your pregnancy may be in one of your fallopian tubes instead of in your uterus. This is called a "tubal" or "ectopic" pregnancy and occurs in 1 per 500 cases. A tubal or ectopic pregnancy is not a viable pregnancy and is not ended by an abortion. This condition may require abdominal surgery to remove the pregnancy from the tube.

If pregnancy tissue cannot be clearly defined at the time of the abortion, it will be sent out for pathology analysis. The physician may also request a sonogram and/or serial blood tests to further evaluate the status of the pregnancy.

Symptoms associated with ectopic or tubal pregnancy include:

Severe cramping on one or both sides of the lower abdomen
A feeling of heaviness or intense pressure in your lower abdomen and/or vagina
Severe weakness, light headedness, fainting, heavy sweating or rapid heart rate
Severe shoulder pain
Nausea or vomiting

If you experience any of the above symptoms, please call us immediately.