Post-Abortion Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Abortion

I underwent vacuum aspiration on November 5th.
For the first two weeks, everything seemed fine and I didn't experience any pain.
However, around November 19th, I started to feel abdominal pain again, although the discharge had turned clear.
During this time, I ate very light foods, but then I began to have diarrhea, which lasted all day.
After that, the pain continued, and by November 24th, it had not stopped and was getting worse.
The discharge, however, started to turn white.
Recently, with the colder weather, my pain has increased, but it hasn't reached a level where I can't walk; sometimes I just feel like I'm about to break into a cold sweat.
I'm not sure if the pain is due to the cold weather.
Is this pain considered normal, and should I schedule a follow-up appointment?

shiily, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/24

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, there are some abnormalities.
It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/11/24

More Info

After undergoing a vacuum aspiration procedure on November 5, it is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or pain during the recovery period. However, the symptoms you describe, particularly the onset of abdominal pain around November 19, warrant careful consideration.
Initially, it is important to understand that post-abortion pain can vary significantly among individuals. Some women may experience mild cramping and discomfort for a few days, while others may have more pronounced pain that can last longer. The fact that your pain began to intensify after a couple of weeks, especially in conjunction with gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, raises some concerns.

In general, post-abortion pain should gradually decrease over time. If you find that your pain is worsening or persisting beyond what you would consider normal, it is advisable to seek medical attention. The presence of increasing pain, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, heavy bleeding, or foul-smelling discharge, could indicate complications such as infection or retained products of conception.

The change in your discharge from red to clear and then to white can also be significant. While it is normal for the discharge to change in color and consistency as your body heals, any sudden changes, especially if accompanied by pain, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. The fact that you are experiencing pain that leads to sensations of cold sweats could indicate that your body is under stress, possibly due to an underlying issue.

Regarding the weather, while cold temperatures can exacerbate discomfort for some individuals, they are unlikely to be the sole cause of significant abdominal pain. It is essential to differentiate between normal post-operative discomfort and signs of potential complications.

In summary, while some degree of pain can be expected after a vacuum aspiration, the persistence and worsening of your symptoms suggest that it would be prudent to return to your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a physical examination, possibly including an ultrasound, to ensure that there are no complications such as infection or retained tissue. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and ensure a smoother recovery process.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing increasing abdominal pain, changes in discharge, or any other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health, especially following a procedure like an abortion. Your healthcare provider is best equipped to assess your situation and provide the necessary care.

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