When to Follow Up After Medication Abortion: Key Considerations - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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After undergoing a medication abortion using mifepristone (RU486), it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended. In your case, your doctor has advised you to return for a follow-up appointment between September 28 and 30. This follow-up is essential for several reasons, regardless of whether your bleeding has completely stopped or not.

Firstly, the follow-up visit is primarily to ensure that the abortion has been completed successfully. While many women experience heavy bleeding and cramping as part of the process, it is important for a healthcare professional to assess whether the pregnancy has been terminated effectively. This is typically done through a physical examination and possibly an ultrasound. If the abortion is incomplete, there may be retained products of conception, which can lead to complications such as infection or excessive bleeding.

Secondly, the follow-up appointment allows your healthcare provider to monitor your overall health and address any concerns you may have. It is common to have questions about what to expect during the recovery process, and your doctor can provide guidance on managing symptoms such as bleeding, cramping, and emotional responses. They can also discuss contraceptive options if you wish to prevent future pregnancies.

Regarding your specific question about whether to wait until the bleeding has stopped before attending the follow-up appointment, it is generally advisable to go as scheduled. The healthcare provider will want to evaluate your condition at that time, regardless of the status of your bleeding. If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking through two or more pads per hour for two consecutive hours), severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication, or any signs of infection (such as fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge), you should seek medical attention immediately, even before your scheduled follow-up.

In summary, it is important to attend your follow-up appointment as planned, even if your bleeding has not completely resolved. This visit is a critical part of your care after a medication abortion, ensuring that you are safe and healthy moving forward. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms before your appointment, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for advice.