Uterine Contraction Medications After Abortion: What to Expect

Taking uterine contraction medication?

I took RU486 from June 6 to June 20.
On June 22, I took three white pills and immediately started bleeding, which lasted until June 27 when the bleeding completely stopped.
During this time, I had a lot of bleeding only on the first day and did not take any medication to induce contractions.
When I later saw the doctor, they couldn't see clearly and said that since there was no bleeding, it should be clean.
They prescribed me a six-day course of uterine contraction medication, to be taken one pill in the morning and one in the evening.
After taking the morning pill, I had a drop of blood on the pad, and then it stopped.
After taking the evening pill, I also had a drop of blood and then it stopped.
What could be the reason for this? Is it possible that it wasn't completely cleared out?

Xi En, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/04

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, after taking RU486, is it necessary to have a follow-up examination to ensure that everything has been completely expelled? It is recommended to return to your obstetrician-gynecologist for further management.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/07/04

More Info

After an abortion, particularly a medical abortion using medications like RU486 (mifepristone) and misoprostol, it is common for individuals to experience a range of symptoms, including bleeding and cramping. The medications work together to terminate a pregnancy by blocking progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue, and causing the uterus to contract and expel its contents.

In your case, it seems that you experienced significant bleeding initially after taking the medications, which is typical. The heavy bleeding you observed on the first day is often due to the uterus contracting to expel the pregnancy tissue. Afterward, the bleeding subsided, which can also be a normal part of the process. However, the concern arises when there is uncertainty about whether the uterus has completely emptied.

The fact that you were prescribed uterine contraction medications (often oxytocin or similar agents) suggests that your healthcare provider wanted to ensure that your uterus would contract effectively to prevent any retained tissue. Retained tissue can lead to complications such as infection or prolonged bleeding, so it is essential to monitor this closely.

The minimal bleeding you experienced after taking the contraction medication could indicate that your uterus is responding appropriately to the medication. The fact that you only saw a drop of blood after taking the medication suggests that your uterus may have already expelled the remaining tissue, and the contractions are helping to ensure that everything is clean.
However, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. If you continue to experience any unusual symptoms, such as persistent pain, heavy bleeding, or fever, it is essential to seek medical attention. Your doctor may recommend an ultrasound to confirm that the uterus is clear of any remaining tissue.

In summary, while the bleeding pattern you described can be normal after an abortion, it is always best to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on your specific situation and ensure that you are recovering properly. If you have any lingering concerns about your recovery or the effectiveness of the medications, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and reassurance.

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