Miscarriage Bleeding: What to Expect and When to Seek Help

Miscarriage bleeding

Hello Doctor, I took medication to delay my period from around November 17 to November 28.
After stopping the medication for two days, I experienced bleeding similar to a menstrual period.
My menstrual cycle started on December 1 and continued with bleeding until December 11.
Feeling that something was not right, I visited a gynecologist, who performed a urine test and confirmed that I was pregnant (approximately 3 weeks).
An ultrasound showed a gestational sac.
When the doctor learned that I had taken medication to delay my period, they asked if I wanted to continue the pregnancy.
The doctor prescribed me medication to support the pregnancy, but after taking only two pills, I suddenly experienced heavy bleeding and passed something the size of a gestational sac.
Upon returning for another ultrasound, it was confirmed that the gestational sac was no longer present.
The doctor did not mention anything about incomplete miscarriage, only stating that it was gone and likely lost.
The doctor asked if I would continue to bleed, to which I replied yes, and then prescribed medication to help clear everything out (one pill of two types after breakfast, lunch, and dinner for three days).
I have a few questions regarding this situation: 1.
Is it normal to experience bleeding while taking the medication? 2.
After finishing the three days of medication, is it also normal to continue bleeding? How many more days might I bleed? 3.
When can I expect my next menstrual period to return? 4.
Will this type of early miscarriage affect future pregnancies? Thank you, Doctor!

Linne, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, please check with your obstetrician-gynecologist to confirm if the miscarriage has been complete.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/12/14

More Info

I'm sorry to hear about your experience, and I understand that this can be a very stressful time. Let's address your questions regarding miscarriage bleeding and what to expect moving forward.

1. Is it normal to bleed while taking medication after a miscarriage?
Yes, it is quite common to experience bleeding after a miscarriage, even while taking medication prescribed to help your body expel remaining tissue. The medications you were given are likely intended to assist in the process of clearing out the uterus, which can lead to continued bleeding. This bleeding can vary in intensity and duration, and it may resemble a menstrual period or be heavier, especially if your body is still expelling tissue.

2. Will I continue to bleed after finishing the medication?
It is possible to continue bleeding for a few days to weeks after completing the medication. The duration of bleeding can vary significantly from person to person. Some women may experience light spotting, while others may have heavier bleeding. If the bleeding persists beyond a couple of weeks or becomes excessively heavy (soaking through a pad in an hour), it is crucial to seek medical attention.

3. When can I expect my next menstrual period?
After a miscarriage, it can take some time for your menstrual cycle to return to normal. Typically, women may expect their period to return within 4 to 6 weeks after the miscarriage, but this can vary. Factors such as hormonal levels, stress, and individual health can influence the timing. It’s essential to monitor your body and consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about the timing of your next period.

4. Will this miscarriage affect future pregnancies?
Generally, a single miscarriage does not significantly impact future pregnancies. Many women go on to have healthy pregnancies after experiencing a miscarriage. However, if you have recurrent miscarriages (three or more), it may be worth discussing further evaluations with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues. Emotional and physical recovery is essential, so ensure you take care of yourself during this time.

In summary, while bleeding after a miscarriage can be concerning, it is often a normal part of the process. Keep in close contact with your healthcare provider, especially if you experience any concerning symptoms such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection (fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge). They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible. Remember to give yourself time to heal both physically and emotionally, and don't hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, or professional counselors if needed.

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