Her Hope Pregnancy Center

What Are the Signs of an Incomplete Abortion?

January 23, 2026

After a pregnancy ends, whether through miscarriage or a medical procedure, the uterus must fully expel all pregnancy tissue to heal properly. An incomplete abortion occurs when tissue remains in the uterus, which can increase the risk of infection or heavy bleeding. Recognizing warning signs early is an important step in protecting your health.

At Her Hope Pregnancy Center, we provide a professional, clinical environment where you can receive accurate information and evaluation if you have concerns about your recovery. Because post-pregnancy symptoms can sometimes resemble normal changes, diagnostic care is often necessary to confirm that healing is complete.

If you’re unsure about your physical symptoms, schedule a free, confidential appointment. Our trained team offers lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to help ensure your health and safety.

How an Incomplete Abortion Is Evaluated and Addressed

When recovery does not progress as expected, a medical evaluation is needed to determine whether the uterus has fully cleared. This evaluation is most frequently completed using ultrasound.

If retained tissue is present, the next steps are based on individual health factors and symptom severity. In some situations, remaining tissue may pass naturally under medical supervision. In other cases, medication may be used to help the uterus contract and expel tissue. When tissue does not pass or symptoms persist, a surgical procedure, such as dilation and curettage (D&C), may be recommended to remove remaining tissue and reduce the risk of infection or excessive bleeding.

Untreated retained tissue can increase the risk of infection, prolonged bleeding, or other health concerns. Early assessment allows appropriate care to be provided and supports a safer, more complete recovery.

Symptoms That May Need Medical Evaluation

  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding: Soaking two or more pads per hour for two hours, passing large clots, or bleeding that worsens instead of gradually decreasing.
  • Persistent or worsening pain: Mild cramping is normal, but severe or increasing abdominal or pelvic pain should be assessed promptly.
  • Signs of infection: Fever of 100.4°F or higher, foul-smelling discharge, flu-like symptoms, or feeling unusually unwell.

Supporting Safe Recovery

Your body’s recovery matters. If anything feels abnormal, seek evaluation promptly. At Her Hope Pregnancy Center, we provide free, confidential ultrasound services and pregnancy testing in a safe and professional environment.

Schedule your appointment today to ensure a complete recovery and receive compassionate support for both your physical and emotional well-being.