Postabortal syndrome can present either immediately following the procedure or several days later.
Normally, following a curettage or aspiration, the endometrial lining and any remaining pregnancy tissue flow out through the cervix. The uterus fills with clots and continues to bleed. The uterus cannot contract. If postabortal syndrome occurs immediately following the procedure, the client generally reports increasing cramping and discomfort rather than the expected decreasing of these symptoms. With delayed onset, the client will usually report feeling well until the sudden onset of symptoms and signs, often with very light or no bleeding following the procedure.