Expert: Doctor Early Options - 3/13/2009

Question
I had a surgical abortion (vacuum aspiration)done last week, thursday, 03/05/09 and took antibiotics for 3 days as prescribed.  Right after the procedure through early Saturday, I felt fine with occassional abd cramps. However, late Saturday night, I had diarrhea due to food that didn't agree with my stomach and had 1 glass of cocktail drink.  The diarrhea resolved the next day, but ever since then until tuesday, I have this weird lingering mild nausea, on and off lightheadedness, and sharp, shooting abd cramps relieved by Aleeve, but comes back on and off.  Bleeding/spotting is okay, no change.  I've been checking my temperature everyday and no fever.  Should I be worried about a possible infection post-procedure without having a low-grade or high temperature?

Answer
Dear Jill,
Your symptoms of lingering nausea and occasional abdominal pain with no fever sounds more related to whatever you stomach problem you had on Saturday night.  Infection from the procedure would be severe lower abdominal pain that is persistent, and does not come and go as you describe, with or without fever.  From what you describe, I don't think you need to be concerned. If the nausea continues and gets worse for more than 3 more days you should call the doctor's office to rule out continued pregnancy symptoms.  
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City