How to Reduce the Risk of Infection After an Abortion

If you’re having a pregnancy termination then it is important to be aware of the risks and the steps that you can take to reduce them. Although serious complications are very rare after an abortion, you still need to be aware of them so that you can protect yourself. It is particularly important to know what you can do to prevent infections after an abortion as this is the most common complications.

Risks of Pregnancy Termination

The pregnancy termination procedures that are used by doctors in the UK are very safe. Most women won’t experience any serious side effects after a medical or surgical abortion. However, a small number of women can experience complications. Your doctor at 132 Healthwise will ensure that you understand the risks so that you can make an informed choice about your care.

One of the most common complications after pregnancy termination is an infection. Infections can develop after both medical and surgical terminations. Germs can sometimes enter your body when you have an abortion or get into your bloodstream while you are healing. The procedure can also transfer bacteria that are harmless in one area into another part of your reproductive system where they can cause problems.

In most cases, the effects are mild, but an untreated infection in your reproductive system could develop into something more serious if you don’t get the right care. You could develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) which can cause issues such as fertility problems if it isn’t treated promptly. It’s therefore important to be aware of the signs of infection after a pregnancy termination and to do what you can to reduce the chances of developing one.

How to Prevent an Infection

It is possible to take some simple steps to reduce the risk of developing an infection after a pregnancy termination. Your doctor will provide more personalised advice on the risks of abortion and how to reduce them during your initial consultation.

In order to prevent an infection you should:

• Get tested for STIs before your pregnancy termination so that any infections can be treated to prevent them from spreading or getting worse after the procedure.
• If your doctor gives you any antibiotics, make sure that you take them as directed and complete the full course of treatment. Antibiotics are sometimes given to prevent infections when you have an abortion. You might also be prescribed antibiotics if you show signs of an infection after the procedure.
• Avoid having sex for at least 2-3 weeks after the pregnancy termination, or at least until the bleeding has stopped. Sexual activity can sometimes introduce bacteria into your body or push them further into your reproductive system, so it’s best to avoid it while you are still healing.
• Use sanitary pads rather than tampons to manage the bleeding after an abortion. You will be able to use tampons again when you have your next normal period, if you want.

If you notice any symptoms of infection after your pregnancy termination, then you should contact your doctor at 132 Healthwise. You might have an infection if you have a high fever, severe pain or unusual looking or smelling vaginal discharge. Most infections can be easily eliminated with antibiotics, but they can cause serious complications if they’re not treated.