Fewer complications arise if the pregnancy is terminated within 10 weeks. If a woman suspects that she is pregnant, and does not want to continue with the pregnancy, she should contact her GP as soon as possible.

There is no such thing as an operation or procedure that is completely risk-free. Termination of pregnancy, whether medical or surgical, is a safe procedure but complications are possible.

The most common complications are described below.

Bleeding

After the abortion it is normal to bleed for a couple of days. After that, the bleeding will decrease for a couple of weeks. A period or menstruation will, in most cases, occur after five to six weeks. If the woman bleeds more heavily than she would normally, it could be because her uterus has not been emptied completely. If this is the case she should ask a doctor to examine her. This complication applies to both medical and surgical terminations.

Pelvic inflammatory disease

If a woman has an unpleasant vaginal discharge, a temperature and abdominal pains, she should contact her doctor. Inflammation can occur if the uterus has not been emptied properly, or if bacteria have got into the uterus during the operation. The inflammation is treated with antibiotics. If some tissue still remains in the uterus, it may be necessary to remove it with a new evacuation of the womb. Baths, swimming pools and unprotected sexual intercourse should all be avoided until any bleeding has stopped. This complication applies to both medical and surgical terminations.

Pain

It is normal to have mild pain across the lower abdomen for the first couple of days after a termination. If the pain is not reduced by normal pain killers the woman should contact her doctor.

Puncture of the uterus

During a surgical termination, inserting the suction device may risk puncturing a hole in the uterus. If the doctor suspects this, the operation will be stopped and the patient will be kept in hospital for observation. This complication is rare and does not apply to medical terminations.