If you’ve recently taken the abortion pill and are experiencing unusual or severe symptoms, you may be dealing with an incomplete abortion—a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.

If you suspect this is happening, it’s critical to go to the emergency room right away and tell the medical team that you have taken the abortion drugs. Seeking prompt care could save your life.

If you’re not sure, read on to learn more about what an incomplete abortion is and signs you might be experiencing one.

What Is an Incomplete Abortion?

An incomplete abortion is a risk of the abortion pill that occurs when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in the uterus rather than being fully expelled. This can lead to prolonged bleeding, infection, and other severe complications.

Without medical treatment, an incomplete abortion can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout the body.

Signs of an Incomplete Abortion

If you’ve recently taken the abortion pill, be on the lookout for the following warning signs of an incomplete abortion:

Heavy or prolonged bleeding (soaking more than two pads per hour for two consecutive hours)
Severe abdominal pain or cramping that does not improve with pain medication
Fever or chills (a possible sign of infection)
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Feeling weak, dizzy, or faint
Severe nausea or vomiting

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, do not ignore them—seek emergency medical care immediately.

Why Immediate Medical Treatment Is Critical

Leaving an incomplete abortion untreated can lead to serious health complications, including:

Infection: Leftover tissue in the uterus can cause a severe bacterial infection.
Sepsis: If an infection spreads into the bloodstream, it can become fatal without emergency treatment.
Excessive blood loss: Prolonged heavy bleeding can lead to dangerous levels of blood loss, requiring medical intervention.

You Are Not Alone—Anderson Pregnancy Care Is Here to Help

If you’re experiencing complications or feeling unsure about your next steps, Anderson Pregnancy Care is here for you. While we do not perform or refer for abortions, we offer a safe, confidential space to talk about your concerns and get connected with medical care.

Your health and safety are the most important thing right now—if you need help, reach out today for support.

*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.

What Are the Signs of an Incomplete Abortion?