Is It Normal to Experience Heavy Bleeding Two Weeks After Abortion?

Bleeding two weeks after an abortion?

I had a surgical abortion on March 7th, and starting from the second day post-procedure, I experienced light brown spotting that continued until my follow-up appointment on March 16th.
The doctor mentioned that it seemed like not everything had been expelled and advised me to wait for my menstrual period to see how things progressed.
I then consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and took herbal medicine for three days, which was not a specific formula but had similar effects.
During the time I was taking the herbal medicine, I did not experience any heavy bleeding.
However, two days after stopping the medication (on March 21st), I suddenly had bright red bleeding, which was about the same amount as day 3 or 4 of my menstrual period.
Occasionally, I have mild abdominal cramps, but they are not severe, and I do not have a fever.
Is it normal to have bleeding two weeks post-abortion? I have heard that lochia is brown and has a foul odor, but the bleeding I experienced in the last two days is similar to a menstrual period.
Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I still recommend returning to the original clinic for follow-up to see if everything has been properly addressed.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/03/23

More Info

Experiencing heavy bleeding two weeks after an abortion can be concerning, and it is essential to understand the normal post-abortion recovery process as well as when to seek medical attention.
After an abortion, whether it is a medical or surgical procedure, it is common for women to experience some degree of bleeding. This bleeding can vary in color and intensity. Initially, many women may notice light spotting or brownish discharge, which is often referred to as lochia. This is the body’s way of expelling the remaining tissue and blood from the uterus. Lochia can last for several days to weeks, and it is typically expected to transition from a heavier flow to lighter spotting over time.

In your case, the timeline you provided indicates that you had light brown spotting for the first few days post-abortion, which is normal. However, the sudden onset of bright red bleeding around March 21, which you described as similar to the flow experienced during the third or fourth day of a menstrual period, raises some questions. Bright red blood can indicate fresh bleeding, and if it is heavier than what you experienced previously, it may warrant further evaluation.

It is important to note that while some bleeding is expected, heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour or less) can be a sign of complications such as retained products of conception, infection, or other issues. The presence of mild abdominal pain can also be a normal part of the recovery process, but if the pain becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Regarding your concerns about lochia, it is true that lochia can sometimes have a foul odor, which may indicate an infection. However, not all post-abortion bleeding will have this characteristic. The absence of a foul smell in your case is a positive sign, but it does not completely rule out the possibility of complications.

Given your situation, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend an ultrasound to ensure that the uterus is clear of any retained tissue and to assess the cause of the heavy bleeding. Additionally, they can provide guidance on managing any discomfort and monitoring your recovery.

In summary, while some bleeding is normal after an abortion, the sudden increase in bleeding you are experiencing two weeks post-procedure should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health, especially after a significant medical procedure. Make sure to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your doctor, and do not hesitate to seek help if you feel something is not right. Your health and well-being are paramount, and timely medical advice can help ensure a smooth recovery.

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