Abortion Pills: What to Expect After Use - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Abortion pill administration


Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation.
I confirmed my pregnancy on May 26, which was five weeks along, and I took abortion medication at that time.
I continued taking the medication until July 23 and also drank herbal decoction for uterine contractions.
However, my period has not come yet.
I experienced some light bleeding from August 1 to August 7.
Does this count as my period? I am currently in Shanghai, and I took the medication in Taiwan.

Geraldine, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/16

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


There could be many possible reasons, such as the ovarian function not yet having fully recovered, the abortion process not being completely finished, or the influence of traditional Chinese medicine.
Please seek medical examination for confirmation.
Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/08/16

More Info


When it comes to understanding the use of abortion pills and what to expect after their administration, it's essential to have a clear grasp of the process and the potential outcomes. Abortion pills, commonly referred to as medical abortion, typically involve a two-drug regimen: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is taken first to block the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. After 24 to 48 hours, misoprostol is taken to induce contractions and expel the pregnancy tissue.

In your case, since you confirmed a pregnancy of five weeks on May 26 and subsequently took abortion pills, it is crucial to monitor your body’s response. After taking these medications, it is common to experience a range of symptoms, including cramping, bleeding, and the passage of tissue. The bleeding can vary significantly from person to person; some may experience heavy bleeding similar to a menstrual period, while others may have lighter spotting.

Regarding your specific situation, you mentioned that you experienced some bleeding from August 1 to August 7, which raises a few considerations. First, it is important to determine whether this bleeding is part of the abortion process or if it could be a sign of an incomplete abortion or other complications. In many cases, after a medical abortion, individuals may not have a regular menstrual period for several weeks or even months, as the body takes time to adjust hormone levels and return to its normal cycle.

If the bleeding you experienced was light and not accompanied by severe pain or other concerning symptoms, it could be a sign that your body is beginning to return to its normal state. However, if you continue to experience irregular bleeding, or if you have any severe pain, fever, or other unusual symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform an ultrasound or other tests to ensure that the abortion was complete and that there are no complications.

Additionally, it is important to note that after a medical abortion, it is common for the menstrual cycle to be irregular for a few months. Your body may take time to recalibrate, and it is not unusual for the first few periods to be different in terms of timing, flow, and symptoms compared to what you experienced before the pregnancy.

In summary, after using abortion pills, you can expect a range of symptoms, including bleeding and cramping. The bleeding you experienced from August 1 to August 7 may or may not indicate the start of your menstrual cycle, especially considering the timing after the abortion. If you have concerns about your symptoms or if they persist, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide you with the necessary support and ensure that your health is monitored appropriately during this time.

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