Complications Of Termination Of Pregnancy

An abortion or termination of pregnancy is generally done before the 20th week of a woman’s gestational period. The sooner the pregnancy is diagnosed and aborted, the better it is for the woman.

Terminating a pregnancy has psychological implications and a woman should only go for it after consulting someone close and trusted who can give her solid input about the prudence of continuing with the pregnancy.

Termination of a pregnancy is done ether through abortion pills within the first 9 weeks, suction evacuation which is a surgical procedure done after the 10th week of pregnancy and other surgical procedures, which involve removing the foetus with the help of forceps. Although abortions are safe, complications are known to occur. Here are the common complications of a medical termination of pregnancy.

Complications Of Termination Of Pregnancy

Bleeding

Normal bleeding occurs for about 2-4 weeks after the operation and the bleeding normally subsides after the first few days. A woman will also get her menstrual cycle after 5-6 weeks.

At times abnormal or heavy bleeding may occur. This normally occurs when the pregnancy has not been completely expelled from the uterus. The woman needs to get herself examined so that the bleeding can be stopped before it gives rise to further complications.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection may occur in the uterus post abortion and this may lead to excruciating pain, fever, chills and an unpleasant vaginal discharge.

This is called as pelvic inflammatory disease. The inflammation occurs because of bacterial infection and this can be treated with the help of antibiotics.

Pain

Normal cramping and pain after the surgery or termination is possible and this subsides after a couple of days.

If the pain is persistent or increases in severity the woman must consult a doctor.

Puncture of The Uterus

At times during surgical evacuation, a hole may be punctured in the uterus. If this happens, the surgery is immediately stopped and the patient is kept under observation for a few days.

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Nausea Vomiting and Diarrhoea

Women who take pills to undergo an abortion may complain of vomiting, diarrhoea and nausea due to the side effects of these pills.

Headaches and dizziness may also be common. These can be treated by taking anti nausea medication.

Infertility

Infertility is a rare complication but can occur if the woman is suffering from Chlamydia. Chlamydia can cause severe inflammation of the fallopian tubes, which transport the eggs as well along the ovaries.

All of this can have a negative effect on the woman’s fertility. In such a case, it is better to first treat the infection before abortion is carried out.

Prevention of Pregnancy

It is very important that immediate action be taken to prevent future pregnancies as repeat abortions can leave an impact on the woman’s fertility. It is important that all women adopt a safe method of contraception after the abortion has been done.

In some cases, women can opt for tubal ligation especially when they have completed their families and do not want to go in for another pregnancy. Sterilization is a permanent birth control method.