Possible Complications

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Abortion Care

Complications are rare. Approximately 1% of women experience complications as a result of this surgery. In general, the earlier in the pregnancy, the fewer the complications. Vaccuum aspiration abortion is one of the safest surgical procedures. As with any type of surgery, however, there is a chance of a complication. The following are complications that can occur:

INFECTION:

Of the uterus, which may require antibiotics, hospitalization, and rarely can lead to infertility.

INCOMPLETE ABORTION:

In rare cases, the abortion procedure may not remove all of the pregnancy tissue. The retained tissue may be passed spontaneously or the procedure may have to be repeated (either here or in the hospital). If tissue is passed, it should be saved so a laboratory can examine it.

RETAINED CLOTS:

Sometimes clots cover the opening of the cervix, causing blood to fill in the uterus. This is accompanied by severe cramps. Often a heating pad or hot shower and abdomen massage will provide relief. If the clots cannot be passed, a repeat procedure may be required.

CONTINUING PREGNANCY:

Rarely, the surgery fails to end a pregnancy. This may be due to multiple pregnancies, a double uterus, or a pregnancy outside of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy). A failed abortion requires re-evacuation. An ectopic pregnancy requires hospitalization and surgery.

HEMORRHAGE:

Extremely heavy bleeding that requires an evaluation to determine the cause of the bleeding.

PERFORATION:

An injury to the uterine wall may occur once in 1,000 abortions. Although most perforations heal themselves, hospitalization and surgery may be required. Rarely, removal of the uterus occurs.

LACERATION:

A tearing of the cervix which could require suturing.