Signs of incomplete abortion
Maybe you’ve noticed unexpected bleeding, lingering cramps, or a gut feeling that something isn’t right. Or perhaps you’re just trying to make sense of conflicting advice from Google, friends, or even well-meaning relatives. Whatever brought you here, this blog is your safe space. We’ll walk you through what an incomplete abortion means, how to recognise it, and what to do next.
By the end, you’ll have more clarity and feel back in control of your health or at least know what your next steps should be. Let’s get started.
- What is an incomplete abortion?
An incomplete abortion (or incomplete pregnancy loss) happens when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after a miscarriage or medical abortion. Think of it like your body hitting “pause” instead of “complete”—it’s still trying to process the loss, and it needs a little support to finish the process safely.
This isn’t rare. Studies show that up to 15% of miscarriages and some medication abortions may require follow-up care. It doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. Bodies are unique, and sometimes they just need more time—or gentle medical guidance—to heal.
- Difference between complete and incomplete abortion
Complete Abortion
What happens: All pregnancy tissue (embryo/fetus, placenta, and related tissue) is naturally expelled from the uterus.
Symptoms:
Bleeding slows down significantly within a few days.
Cramps subside and feel more like a normal period.
Pregnancy hormone (hCG) levels drop steadily, confirmed by blood tests or a negative pregnancy test.
Outcome: No further medical treatment is needed. Your body has finished the process on its own.
Incomplete Abortion
What happens: Some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, preventing it from fully healing.
Symptoms:
Bleeding continues (often heavy, with large clots).
Cramps persist or worsen, feeling sharper than period pain.
hCG levels stay elevated because the body still detects pregnancy tissue.
Other risks: Fever, foul-smelling discharge (signs of infection), or ongoing nausea.
Outcome: Requires medical care (medication or procedure) to remove remaining tissue and prevent complications.
- Causes of incomplete abortion
Incomplete abortion can be caused due to several reasons.
- Incomplete Procedure: During an induced abortion, if the process isn’t fully completed, some pregnancy tissue might stay behind leading to an incomplete abortion.
- Molar Pregnancy: A rare mix-up where non-viable tissue grows instead of an embryo, which can lead to an incomplete abortion.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: When pregnancy develops outside the uterus (like in a fallopian tube), your body can’t safely process it alone.
- Uterine Shape: Some uteruses have structural differences (think: heart-shaped or divided) that make passing tissue trickier.
This isn’t your fault. Bodies may respond differently to stress, hormones, and even genetics can play a role in this.
- Common symptoms of incomplete abortion
Your body often sends clear signals when something needs attention. Here’s what to look for after an abortion or miscarriage:
- Heavy or Prolonged Bleeding: Soaking through more than 2 pads per hour for several hours, or passing large clots.
- Severe Cramping: Pain that’s worse than period cramps and doesn’t ease with over-the-counter meds.
- Fever: This might be your body’s way of saying it is fighting an infection.
- Foul-Smelling Discharge: An unusual, strong odour (different from normal menstrual blood) can be a red flag.
- Ongoing Pregnancy Symptoms: Still feeling nauseous or fatigued weeks later when you shouldn’t be.
- Tenderness in Your Lower Abdomen: Pain or pressure when pressing gently below your belly button.
⚠️ If you experience fever, dizziness, or extreme pain, seek care immediately.
- Treatment options for incomplete abortion
If you're dealing with an incomplete abortion, know this: You have multiple safe paths forward, and your doctor will help you choose what's right for your body and situation. The doctor will consider your uterine size (determined by ultrasound), severity of symptoms (bleeding, pain, infection risk), your preferences and overall health before suggesting the best possible method.
Here's what to expect:
1. Watchful Waiting
Best for: When only a small amount of tissue remains and you're not bleeding heavily or showing signs of infection.
What happens: Your doctor may suggest waiting a week or two to see if your body passes the remaining tissue naturally.
You'll need: Follow-up ultrasounds to confirm everything has cleared.
2. Medication (Helping Your Body Along)
How it works: You doctor may suggest a second dose of misoprostol (a pill that causes contractions) to help your uterus expel any remaining tissue.
What to expect: Cramping and bleeding (usually heavier than a period) for a few hours.
Best for: Stable cases without infection, and if you'd prefer to avoid a procedure.