Medical Abortion: Is My Experience a Failure?

Medication abortion

I underwent a medical abortion on October 5th.
When I took the first and second doses, there was no bleeding or any sensation.
On the afternoon of the 7th, I took the third dose, and the doctor mentioned that there would be bleeding.
However, since then, I have only noticed blood when wiping after using the restroom, which is even less than my menstrual flow, and I haven't felt much pain.
Does this mean that the medical abortion has failed?

Xiao A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/08

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On October 5th, I underwent a medical abortion.
When I took the first and second doses, there was no bleeding or any sensation.
On the afternoon of the 7th, I took the third dose, and the doctor mentioned that there would be bleeding.
However, since then, I have only noticed blood when wiping after using the restroom, which is even less than my menstrual flow, and I haven't felt much pain.
Does this mean the medical abortion has failed? Answer: Monitor for 2-3 more days.

Reply Date: 2017/10/08

More Info

Your experience with medical abortion raises important questions about the effectiveness of the procedure and what constitutes a successful outcome. First, it's essential to understand that medical abortion typically involves a two-step process using medications such as mifepristone and misoprostol. The first medication is taken to block the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. The second medication is taken to induce contractions and expel the pregnancy tissue.

In your case, you mentioned that after taking the medications, you experienced minimal bleeding and no significant pain. It's important to note that the amount of bleeding can vary significantly from person to person. Some individuals may experience heavy bleeding and cramping, while others may have a much lighter experience. The absence of heavy bleeding does not automatically indicate that the abortion has failed.

A medical abortion is considered successful if the pregnancy is terminated, which can be confirmed through follow-up care. This typically involves a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider within a week or two after the procedure. During this visit, your doctor may perform an ultrasound or a blood test to ensure that the pregnancy has been expelled completely. If there are any concerns about incomplete abortion or ongoing pregnancy, your healthcare provider will discuss the next steps, which may include additional medications or a surgical procedure to complete the abortion.

It's also worth mentioning that some women may experience what is known as a "missed abortion," where the pregnancy does not develop properly, and the body does not recognize that the pregnancy has ended. This can lead to a lack of bleeding or symptoms. If you have any doubts about the effectiveness of the medical abortion, it is crucial to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

In summary, your experience of minimal bleeding and discomfort does not necessarily mean that the medical abortion has failed. The best course of action is to consult with your healthcare provider for a follow-up appointment to confirm the outcome of the procedure. They can provide you with the necessary information and support to ensure your health and well-being moving forward. Remember, every individual's experience with medical abortion can differ, and it's essential to have open communication with your healthcare team to address any concerns you may have.

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