Brown Discharge After Medication Abortion: What You Need to Know - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Brown discharge after medical abortion?


Hello Doctor, I took medication for a medical abortion about five weeks ago.
I had a beta-hCG level of 19,835 on November 17.
After taking the medication, the doctor said the embryo was expelled, but now when I go to the bathroom, there is still some light brown discharge that is odorless.
Yesterday, on December 3, I couldn't help but do a blood test and my beta-hCG level was 56.3.
Is this normal? Does this indicate an incomplete miscarriage? The doctor mentioned that it would gradually improve, and I would like to hear your advice.
The doctor later prescribed me three days' worth of Tren capsules for hemostasis and Estromon F.C.
tablets as hormonal medication.
If I take these, won't my blood just be retained? Shouldn't I be taking a uterine contraction medication instead? Please help me clarify this, thank you.

Su, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/05

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


I took medication for a medical abortion five weeks ago.
I had a beta-hCG level of 19,835 on November 17, and the doctor said the embryo was expelled.
However, I noticed some light brown discharge when I wipe after using the restroom.
It doesn't have an odor.
Yesterday, December 3, I couldn't resist and did a blood test, and my beta-hCG level was 56.3.
Is this normal?
Answer: Yes, this is normal.
Does this mean it is not a complete miscarriage?
Answer: No, this does not indicate an incomplete miscarriage.
The doctor mentioned that it will gradually improve.
I would like to hear your advice.
The doctor later prescribed three days' worth of medication: Tren capsules for hemostasis and Estromon F.C.
tablets as hormonal medication.
If I take these, won't my blood be retained? Shouldn't I be taking uterotonics instead?
Answer: The blood will not be retained.
Taking uterotonics is also an option.

Reply Date: 2018/12/05

More Info


Understanding brown discharge after a medication abortion can be a source of concern for many individuals. It is important to recognize that some degree of brown discharge can be a normal part of the process following a medication abortion. This discharge is often old blood that is being expelled from the uterus, and it can vary in color and consistency.
In your case, you mentioned that you had a beta-hCG level of 19,835 on November 17, and after taking the medication, you received confirmation that the embryo was expelled. However, your subsequent beta-hCG level of 56.3 on December 3 raises some questions. A decreasing hCG level is generally expected after a successful abortion, and a low level like 56.3 could indicate that the body is still in the process of clearing the pregnancy hormones. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor these levels and ensure they continue to decline.

The presence of brown discharge, especially if it is not accompanied by foul odor or heavy bleeding, is typically not a cause for alarm. It is common for individuals to experience light spotting or discharge for a few weeks following a medication abortion. However, if the discharge becomes heavy, is accompanied by severe pain, or has a foul smell, it is crucial to seek medical attention as these could be signs of an infection or incomplete abortion.

Regarding the medications prescribed to you, Tren capsules (which may contain tranexamic acid) are often used to help reduce bleeding, while Estromon (which contains estrogen) may be prescribed to help regulate hormonal levels post-abortion. While it may seem counterintuitive to take medications that could potentially reduce bleeding after an abortion, these medications can help stabilize the body’s hormonal balance and reduce excessive bleeding. It is not uncommon for healthcare providers to use a combination of medications to manage post-abortion symptoms effectively.

You also mentioned the desire for a uterine contraction agent. Medications such as misoprostol are typically used to help the uterus contract and expel its contents during a medication abortion. However, if your healthcare provider has determined that the abortion was complete and that you are experiencing only light brown discharge, they may not find it necessary to prescribe additional uterotonics at this time.

In summary, brown discharge after a medication abortion can be normal, especially if it is light and not accompanied by other concerning symptoms. It is essential to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider, follow up on your beta-hCG levels, and report any changes in your symptoms. If you have any concerns about the medications you are taking or the symptoms you are experiencing, do not hesitate to reach out to your provider for clarification and guidance. Your health and peace of mind are paramount during this recovery process.

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