Post-Miscarriage Concerns: Bleeding and Menstrual Cycle - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Hello, doctor. I have questions regarding issues after a miscarriage?


Doctor, my fetus's heart stopped at over two months.
I took medication on the night of May 23 and miscarried.
After that, I had a follow-up appointment and was told that everything had cleared out.
I started drinking herbal soup on May 30 and have been passing brown blood.
There was no bleeding on June 1 and 2, but today, June 3, I started bleeding again, and it's bright red.
Is this normal? Could this be my period? When can I expect my menstrual cycle to return after a miscarriage?

Xiao Ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/03

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


The fetus's heart stopped at over two months.
After taking medication on the night of May 23, a miscarriage occurred.
A follow-up appointment confirmed that everything was expelled.
Starting on May 30, I began drinking herbal soup and experienced the passage of brownish blood.
There was no bleeding on June 1 and 2, but today, June 3, I am experiencing bright red bleeding.

1.
Is this normal? Is it menstruation?
Answer: This is not menstruation.

2.
When will menstruation return after a miscarriage?
Answer: It is expected to return by the end of June or early July.

Reply Date: 2017/06/03

More Info


I'm sorry to hear about your recent miscarriage. It's a difficult experience, and it's completely normal to have concerns about your body and what to expect moving forward.
After a miscarriage, it's common for women to experience a variety of bleeding patterns as their body adjusts and returns to its pre-pregnancy state. The bleeding you are experiencing can be attributed to several factors, including the natural process of your body expelling the pregnancy tissue, hormonal changes, and the eventual return of your menstrual cycle.

1. Post-Miscarriage Bleeding: After a miscarriage, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, it's typical to have some bleeding. Initially, this bleeding may be similar to a heavy menstrual period, and it can include both bright red and brownish discharge. The brown blood often indicates older blood that has taken longer to exit the body. The fact that you experienced bleeding on June 3rd, after a few days of no bleeding, could be a continuation of the post-miscarriage bleeding or it could be the onset of your first menstrual period.
2. Timing of Menstrual Cycle Resumption: Generally, most women will have their first period within 4 to 6 weeks after a miscarriage, but this can vary widely. Factors such as your individual hormonal balance, how far along you were in your pregnancy, and your overall health can influence when your menstrual cycle will return. Some women may experience their first period sooner, while others may take longer.
3. What to Watch For: If the bleeding you are experiencing is light and not accompanied by severe pain or large clots, it may be a normal part of your recovery. However, if you notice heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour), severe pain, or if the bleeding lasts longer than a couple of weeks, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider. They may want to check for retained tissue or other complications.

4. Emotional and Physical Recovery: It's also important to consider your emotional well-being during this time. A miscarriage can be a traumatic experience, and it's normal to feel a range of emotions. If you find yourself struggling, consider reaching out to a counselor or support group.

5. Future Pregnancies: If you are considering trying to conceive again, it’s usually recommended to wait until you have had at least one normal menstrual cycle before trying again. This allows your body to recover and can help with dating a future pregnancy.

In summary, while the bleeding you are experiencing could be normal, it's essential to monitor it and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help ensure that you are on the right path to recovery. Take care of yourself during this time, and don't hesitate to reach out for support.

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