Incomplete Abortion

An incomplete abortion, also known as a missed abortion or delayed pregnancy loss, is when a pregnant woman partially loses a pregnancy but still has remaining pregnancy tissue in her uterus. This can be a difficult time for a woman because she may experience physical and emotional stress throughout the process. There are various treatments available to help women with this issue.

Causes of Incomplete Abortion

Incomplete abortion can happen as a result of a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, or complications from an abortion procedure. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg is implanted outside the uterus, outside of the endometrial wall and either remains there or starts to move into the fallopian tubes. A molar pregnancy is a rare condition that occurs when an abnormal egg divides and forms a tumor affecting the growth of the embryo. It is important to seek medical treatment if you experience any symptoms that suggest you may be having an abnormal pregnancy.

Signs of Incomplete Abortion

The most common signs and symptoms of an incomplete abortion include vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal and uterine cramping, lower back pain, and passing of tissue or fluids from the vagina. Other signs can include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and a fever or chills.

Treatment Options for Incomplete Abortion

Treatment depends on the cause of the incomplete abortion. For miscarriages, in some cases, the woman may be able to pass the pregnancy tissue naturally. However, if the woman is still pregnant and is experiencing complications with her pregnancy, her doctor will usually recommend a dilation and evacuation (D&E) procedure. This procedure involves widening the cervix and then removal of the remaining pregnancy tissue with a vacuum device and/or forceps. For ectopic and molar pregnancies, the doctor may recommend medical treatment with medications or surgery.

Managing Emotional Stress After an Incomplete Abortion

In addition to managing physical symptoms, it is important to take care of your emotional health after an incomplete abortion. Some common signs of emotional distress include depression, anxiety, guilt, and grief. It is important to talk to your doctor about your emotions and ask for help if necessary. It can also be helpful to reach out to trusted friends and family members for support during this difficult time.

Coping Strategies for Supporting Others Through Incomplete Abortion

It can be difficult knowing how to support someone who is going through an incomplete abortion. Here are some ways to be supportive:

Listen and be present without judgement.
Encourage them to talk about their feelings.
Help them find professional emotional or medical help if needed.
Share resources on emotional support groups for further help.
Provide practical help such as running errands or making meals.
Give them space and time to process their emotions.