Complications of Medical Abortion
There are a few issues that may occur with a medical abortion. Very heavy bleeding occurs in one to two percent of women undergoing this procedure. In one study, 0.2 percent of women required a transfusion. However, in several other studies, no transfusions were necessary. We follow patients enrolled in our program closely. Our telephones and our answering service can reach a clinician day or night for any questions or concerns. Contact Us
Other rare issues are either the tissue does not pass or pregnancy progresses after the misoprostol is used. These situations only occur one to two percent of the time. While these are not emergencies, it is very important that women who undergo this procedure return for their follow-up ultrasound. This is the only way to determine if the procedure was successful. If additional treatment is indicated, either with medications or a completion procedure, we will provide all necessary treatment.
Finally, a few additional issues have occurred, but are rare. For example, an allergic reaction to a medication is possible. There have been two fatalities which have occurred in the millions of women worldwide who have had this procedure. Fortunately, we follow patients under our care closely. We counsel them to contact us with any signs or symptoms of infection. These women receive prompt, effective and complete treatment through our office.
Note: All medical studies to date have demonstrated no known affects on health or future pregnancies for women who have undergone a medical abortion.
