Can Doctors Detect RU486 Use After a Miscarriage?

Can it be detected after taking RU486?

This month, I noticed that my period was late, and the pregnancy test showed two lines! So, I consulted a doctor who prescribed me RU486.
I didn't experience much pain, just a little bleeding.
During my follow-up appointment, the doctor said that it hadn't cleared out completely and advised me to go home and eat some herbal soup.
However, I didn't inform my family.
I want to go to another clinic for a check-up, but will the doctor at the new clinic be able to tell that I lost the embryo because I took RU486?

Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/25

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

This month, I noticed that my period was late, and a pregnancy test showed two lines! So, I consulted a doctor who prescribed me RU486.
I experienced only mild pain and a little bleeding.
Upon my follow-up visit, the doctor said that it hadn't been completely expelled and advised me to go home and consume more herbal soup, but I didn't inform my family.
I wanted to visit another clinic for further examination.
After switching to a different clinic, can the doctor tell if my embryo was expelled due to taking RU486? Answer: The doctor cannot determine if the embryo was expelled due to taking RU486.

Reply Date: 2019/05/25

More Info

When it comes to the use of RU486 (Mifepristone) and its implications following a miscarriage or abortion, there are several important points to consider. RU486 is primarily used for medical abortion, and it works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the continuation of pregnancy. After taking RU486, it is common for patients to experience some bleeding and cramping, which are signs that the medication is working to terminate the pregnancy.

In response to your question about whether doctors can detect the use of RU486 after a miscarriage, the answer is nuanced. Generally speaking, once a pregnancy has ended, the specific use of RU486 may not be directly identifiable through standard medical examinations. When a patient presents to a new doctor after taking RU486, the physician may conduct a physical examination, ultrasound, or blood tests to assess the status of the uterus and confirm whether the pregnancy has been successfully terminated. However, these tests typically do not provide definitive evidence that RU486 was used specifically.

Ultrasound can show whether there is any remaining tissue in the uterus, which might indicate that the abortion was incomplete. Blood tests can measure levels of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which decreases after a miscarriage or abortion. If hCG levels are still elevated, it may suggest that the pregnancy has not fully resolved, but it does not indicate the method by which the pregnancy was terminated.

It is also important to note that the medical community generally respects patient confidentiality. Unless there are specific reasons to suspect misuse or complications, doctors typically do not inquire about the methods of abortion or miscarriage unless it is relevant to the patient's current medical care.
If you are considering seeking care from a different clinic after using RU486, it is advisable to be open with the new healthcare provider about your medical history, including the use of RU486. This transparency can help ensure that you receive the most appropriate care and follow-up treatment.
In terms of medical ethics and patient care, it is crucial to understand that the use of RU486 is a safe and effective method for terminating early pregnancies when used under medical supervision. If complications arise, such as excessive bleeding or severe pain, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while doctors may not be able to specifically detect the use of RU486 after a miscarriage, they can assess the outcome of the pregnancy through various medical examinations. Open communication with healthcare providers is vital for receiving the best possible care. If you have concerns about your health following the use of RU486, do not hesitate to reach out to a qualified healthcare professional for guidance and support.

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