What Does the Uneven Echo Inside the Uterine Cavity After an Abortion Mean?
Heterogeneous echo in the uterine cavity is generally considered as residual tissue left after an abortion, indicating an incomplete abortion. After the abortion procedure, a follow-up examination will be conducted. If heterogeneous echo is detected in the uterine cavity, it indicates bleeding in the cavity, presenting a mixture of echogenic and hypoechoic patterns. The appropriate solution needs to be determined based on the strength and extent of the echo.
1. What does heterogeneous echo in the uterine cavity after abortion mean? Heterogeneous echo in the uterine cavity often occurs after abortions or similar procedures, indicating residual tissue in the cavity. Under normal conditions, the endometrium in the uterine cavity exhibits uniform echo. However, residual tissue after medical or surgical abortions may dehydrate, resulting in a higher echogenic pattern. If there is uterine bleeding, a mixed echogenic pattern with both echogenic and hypoechoic patterns will be present. Heterogeneous echo in the uterine cavity after abortion requires further assessment based on the strength and extent of the echo to determine if additional uterine clearance is necessary or if blood circulation promoting medication should be administered.
2. What should I do if the abortion is incomplete? First, doctors will typically advise a follow-up ultrasound examination one month after the abortion to assess uterine recovery and the presence of incomplete abortion. If incomplete abortion is detected, a second uterine clearance procedure may be required. It is essential to choose a reputable hospital and advanced techniques for the second procedure to prevent any further complications. Second, if the bleeding is minimal, indicating a small amount of residual tissue, the uterus may contract naturally to expel the residue. However, if the bleeding is excessive and accompanied by abdominal pain, indicating a larger amount of residual tissue, uterine clearance is necessary. The cleanliness of an abortion is generally assessed based on the amount and duration of bleeding and abdominal pain. Typically, after an abortion, the amount of bleeding should be less than menstrual flow, lasting no more than two weeks, and abdominal pain should not exceed one week. If these criteria are exceeded, it may indicate residual tissue or incomplete uterine recovery. Signs of an incomplete abortion include abdominal pain and increased bleeding.
Third, consider performing a uterine clearance procedure to thoroughly remove any residual tissue and prevent prolonged bleeding, which can lead to intrauterine infections over time. The likelihood of spontaneous expulsion of residual tissue increases with fewer gestational days. However, if uterine clearance is undesired, post-abortion medication to promote expulsion can be prescribed. If the medication is ineffective, uterine clearance may still be necessary. If you cannot observe the situation, uterine clearance may be the only option.
