Post-Abortion Concerns: Is Brown Discharge Normal After Two Weeks?

It has been over two weeks, and I am still experiencing bleeding..?

Hello, I had a surgical abortion on November 27, and it has been over two weeks since then.
I am still experiencing some brownish discharge, which is not constant but occurs once or twice a day in small amounts.
Is this normal? I am quite worried because the doctor mentioned that light bleeding for 10 days to two weeks is acceptable, but now it is approaching three weeks.
Additionally, I visited the same doctor on November 30 due to abdominal bloating, and he said that the bloating might be affecting uterine contractions.
He prescribed me gastrointestinal medication, which has helped a bit.
Could this be related to the surgery? Since November 30, I have also been feeling a dull sensation in my abdomen.
Could you please help me with these concerns? Thank you.

msn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/12/14

Dr. Lin Zhaopei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Possible reasons for light bleeding 17 days after an abortion procedure include: 1.
Incomplete abortion (residual tissue remains) 2.
Endometritis 3.
Poor uterine contractions 4.
Unstable endometrium, among others.
Generally, bleeding within three weeks post-surgery is considered acceptable.
To determine if there is residual tissue, an ultrasound or blood tests can be performed.
It is advisable to continue monitoring the situation.

Reply Date: 2002/12/14

More Info

After undergoing an abortion, it is common to have concerns regarding post-operative symptoms, including the presence of brown discharge and abdominal discomfort. Based on your description, it has been over two weeks since your procedure, and you are experiencing intermittent brown discharge, which is a concern for you.
First, it is important to understand that after an abortion, the body goes through a recovery process. This includes the shedding of the uterine lining, which can result in various types of discharge. Brown discharge is often old blood that is being expelled from the uterus, and it can be normal in the weeks following an abortion. The fact that you are experiencing this discharge intermittently rather than continuously is also a positive sign, as it suggests that your body is gradually returning to its normal state.

However, the duration of your symptoms is significant. While light bleeding or spotting can last for up to two weeks post-abortion, if you are still experiencing brown discharge after three weeks, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may want to perform an examination or an ultrasound to ensure that there are no retained products of conception or other complications that could be causing prolonged symptoms.

Regarding your abdominal discomfort, it is not uncommon to experience some bloating or cramping after an abortion. This can be due to a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, the physical effects of the procedure, or even gastrointestinal issues. The fact that your doctor prescribed gastrointestinal medication suggests that they believe your symptoms may be related to digestive issues rather than complications from the abortion itself. It is essential to follow up with your doctor if the abdominal discomfort persists or worsens, as they can provide further evaluation and treatment options.

In summary, while brown discharge can be a normal part of the recovery process after an abortion, the persistence of this symptom beyond two weeks warrants further investigation. Additionally, abdominal discomfort can be related to various factors, and it is crucial to communicate any ongoing symptoms to your healthcare provider for appropriate management. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your doctor are key to ensuring a smooth recovery and addressing any concerns you may have. If you have not already done so, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment to discuss your symptoms in detail and receive personalized medical advice.

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