Experiencing lower back pain 20 days after having an abortion
Lower back pain 20 days after an abortion may be caused by uterine contractions, minor pelvic blood accumulation, or conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Medical attention should be sought promptly, and in some cases, a repeat curettage may be necessary.
1. Uterine contractions
Many women experience lower back pain after an abortion. This is usually mild and tolerable, and mostly related to uterine contractions, manifesting as lower back pain and a sensation of heaviness or pain in the lower abdomen. Typically, no specific treatment is required—observation alone is sufficient.
2. Minor pelvic blood accumulation
This can occur due to changes in uterine position during surgery or postoperative bleeding into the uterine cavity that spreads into the pelvis. Symptoms generally improve gradually with adequate rest.
3. Pelvic inflammatory disease
If the back pain is severe, it may result from pelvic inflammation following the abortion. If accompanied by heavy vaginal bleeding, incomplete abortion should be suspected. In such cases, prompt medical evaluation is essential. A repeat curettage may be required, followed by antibiotic therapy as directed by a physician. Medications such as metronidazole, cephalosporins, or levofloxacin may be prescribed to prevent or treat infection.
If back pain persists despite rest after an abortion, it is advisable to seek medical examination. Additionally, for at least 20 days after the procedure, one should stay warm and avoid exposure to cold, consume warm and nourishing food while avoiding cold or raw items, engage in moderate activity but avoid overexertion, maintain clean, dry, and well-ventilated genital hygiene, change cotton underwear regularly, abstain from sexual intercourse, and use effective contraception afterward to prevent unintended pregnancies.