Are there possible Complications or Side Effects to Surgical Abortions?
During surgical abortions, the doctor cannot see inside the uterus. He or she may use an instrument to evaluate the depth of the uterus. Also, the risk of major complications is higher in 2nd trimester abortions than in 1st trimester abortions. Complications may include: • Infection: Retained pregnancy components or an undiagnosed STD, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, may cause an infection requiring outpatient treatment, or hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics. If pregnancy components are retained, the woman will need another curettage procedure. • Persistent or excessive bleeding: Abnormal bleeding may result from uterine muscles not contracting or blood vessels not constricting to stop the bleeding. Also, blood clots may develop inside the uterus after the procedure. The woman will need medication to stop the bleeding. • The uterus and/or intestine may have been perforated (a hole punched through the wall by instruments inserted within the uterus). The walls of the uterus are muc
