Failed Medical Abortion: Symptoms and Next Steps

Failed medical abortion?

Hello doctor, I took two tablets of Hicwave for the first time and my stomach feels uncomfortable.
Half an hour later, I vomited yellow fluid.
Should I be concerned that I might have expelled the medication? I haven't experienced any bleeding, just slight discomfort and pain.

Yeah, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/25

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is possible.
I recommend returning to the obstetrics and gynecology department for an examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/04/25

More Info

When it comes to understanding failed medical abortion, it is essential to recognize the symptoms and the appropriate next steps to take. Medical abortion typically involves the use of medications such as mifepristone (often referred to by the brand name "Mifeprex") followed by misoprostol (often referred to as "Cytotec"). The process is designed to terminate an early pregnancy safely and effectively, but it can sometimes result in incomplete abortion or failure.

In your case, you mentioned taking two doses of mifepristone and experiencing discomfort and vomiting shortly after. It is important to note that vomiting can affect the absorption of the medication. If the medication is expelled from the stomach before it has been adequately absorbed, it may not be effective in terminating the pregnancy. The absence of bleeding and only mild cramping can indicate that the abortion may not have been successful.

After taking mifepristone, it is common to wait 24 to 48 hours before taking misoprostol. Misoprostol is responsible for causing the uterus to contract and expel its contents. If you have not taken the second medication yet, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for guidance. They may recommend taking the misoprostol as planned, but if you are concerned about the effectiveness due to your vomiting, it is best to consult with them first.

If you have already taken misoprostol and are still experiencing no bleeding or significant symptoms, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They may perform an ultrasound to check for the presence of pregnancy tissue in the uterus. If the abortion is incomplete, further medical intervention may be necessary, which could include additional medication or a surgical procedure known as dilation and curettage (D&C).

In summary, if you are experiencing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting after taking mifepristone, it is essential to communicate these concerns to your healthcare provider. They can provide you with the best course of action based on your individual situation. It is also important to monitor for any signs of complications, such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fever, which would require immediate medical attention.

In conclusion, understanding the process of medical abortion and recognizing the signs of potential failure is crucial. If you have any doubts or concerns about the effectiveness of the medication or your symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and support. They are there to help you navigate this process safely and effectively.

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