How Soon Should You Follow Up After Taking Abortion Pills?

How long after taking abortion medication should I schedule a follow-up appointment?

Hello, doctor! Thank you for your response! I confirmed my pregnancy on the morning of March 10.
I went to the obstetrics and gynecology clinic around noon and was approximately 4 weeks along.
After discussing with my boyfriend, we decided not to continue with the pregnancy.
I had an appointment on March 12 and received medication.
I took the first dose that evening and the second dose on March 14.
It has now been 4 days, and I am still experiencing bleeding similar to a regular menstrual flow.
The clinic physician did not inform me when I should return for a follow-up.
Should I wait until the bleeding stops to return, or do I need to go back now?

Wenwen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On the morning of March 10, a pregnancy test confirmed pregnancy.
By noon, I went to a gynecology clinic for a check-up, which indicated about 4 weeks of pregnancy.
After discussing with my boyfriend, we decided not to continue the pregnancy.
On March 12, I had a consultation and received medication.
I took the first dose that evening and the second dose on March 14.
Currently, after 4 days, I am still experiencing bleeding similar to a normal menstrual flow.
The clinic physician did not inform me when to return for a follow-up.
Should I wait until the bleeding stops to return, or do I need to go back now? Answer: You need to return for a follow-up on March 20.

Reply Date: 2018/03/17

More Info

After taking abortion pills, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the process is complete and that there are no complications. Generally, the recommended follow-up time is about one to two weeks after taking the medication, regardless of whether you are still experiencing bleeding or not. This follow-up is essential for several reasons:
1. Confirmation of Abortion Completion: The primary reason for the follow-up visit is to confirm that the abortion has been completed successfully. This is typically done through an ultrasound or a physical examination. If the abortion is incomplete, there may be retained tissue in the uterus, which can lead to complications such as infection or heavy bleeding.

2. Monitoring for Complications: After taking abortion pills, it is important to monitor for any signs of complications. These can include excessive bleeding (soaking through two or more pads in an hour for two consecutive hours), severe abdominal pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately, regardless of the scheduled follow-up.

3. Understanding Your Body's Response: Each person's body responds differently to the abortion pills. While some may experience bleeding similar to a heavy menstrual period, others may have lighter or more prolonged bleeding. It is essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about your experience, as they can provide guidance and reassurance.

4. Emotional and Psychological Support: The process of abortion can be emotionally taxing. A follow-up appointment can also serve as an opportunity to discuss any emotional or psychological concerns you may have. Many clinics offer counseling services or can refer you to mental health professionals if needed.

5. Contraceptive Counseling: If you are considering future contraceptive options, the follow-up visit is an excellent time to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can help you choose the best method for your needs and ensure that you are protected in the future.

In your specific case, since you are still experiencing bleeding four days after taking the medication, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment sooner rather than later. While some bleeding is normal, your healthcare provider can assess whether it is within the expected range or if further intervention is needed.

In summary, it is generally recommended to follow up one to two weeks after taking abortion pills, but if you have concerns or are experiencing ongoing symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider sooner. Your health and well-being are paramount, and your provider is there to support you through this process.

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