Post-Abortion Nausea: When to Seek Medical Advice?

Nausea after abortion surgery?

You underwent an abortion on September 24, and had sexual intercourse on October 3 and 4 (with confirmed condom use).
However, starting on October 6, you began experiencing nausea that has persisted, and on October 9, you noticed breast swelling, which is causing you concern.
Should you return for a check-up, or is this a normal hormonal change? Could it be a case of unintended pregnancy?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/10

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The response indicates that it is unlikely to be pregnant again so soon after the last pregnancy, especially since you have been using condoms for contraception.
There are several possibilities: 1.
The previous miscarriage may have been incomplete, and some embryonic tissue could still be present, leading to a positive pregnancy reaction.
2.
The miscarriage could be complete, but hormone levels are still unstable.
3.
There may be an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo is located outside the uterus, and a miscarriage procedure can only address pregnancies within the uterus.
It is recommended to return for a check-up.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/10

More Info

Post-abortion nausea can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, especially after undergoing a procedure like an abortion. It’s important to understand the potential causes of nausea following an abortion, as well as when to seek medical advice.

Firstly, nausea after an abortion can be attributed to several factors. One of the most common reasons is hormonal changes. After an abortion, the body undergoes significant hormonal fluctuations as it adjusts back to its pre-pregnancy state. These hormonal shifts can lead to symptoms such as nausea, breast tenderness, and mood swings. In many cases, these symptoms are temporary and will resolve as the body stabilizes.

However, it’s crucial to differentiate between normal post-abortion symptoms and those that may indicate a complication. If you are experiencing persistent nausea that lasts beyond a few days, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, it is essential to seek medical attention. These could be signs of complications such as infection, retained products of conception, or other issues that may require intervention.

Regarding your specific situation, you mentioned that you had sexual intercourse shortly after the abortion, and you are experiencing nausea and breast tenderness. While using condoms significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, no contraceptive method is 100% effective. If there is any possibility of pregnancy, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test or consult with your healthcare provider for a blood test to confirm or rule out pregnancy.

In addition to hormonal changes and the possibility of a new pregnancy, stress and anxiety about the abortion and its aftermath can also contribute to feelings of nausea. It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel anxious about their reproductive health following an abortion, which can manifest physically.

If you are feeling uncertain or anxious about your symptoms, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly an ultrasound, to ensure that everything is healing properly and that there are no complications.

In summary, while nausea can be a normal part of the recovery process after an abortion due to hormonal changes, persistent or severe symptoms warrant a visit to your healthcare provider. It’s essential to monitor your body’s signals and seek help if you feel something is not right. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide the reassurance and care you need during this time.

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