When Will My Period Return After Using RU486 for Abortion?

After using the RU486 medication for medical abortion, when can one expect their menstrual period to return?

Hello Doctor, I underwent a medical abortion with RU486 on March 30, and took the second dose two days later, both at the clinic.
When I returned for a follow-up on April 6, it was found that the abortion was not complete, so the doctor administered a suppository.
On April 8, I returned again but still did not pass any blood clots, and I took more medication.
By April 26, the doctor checked and confirmed that the abortion was complete and prescribed me uterotonics for three days.
However, I tested positive for pregnancy that day with two lines.
I would like to ask: 1.
Why do I see two lines? Does this indicate that there is still some tissue remaining? 2.
Since my first RU486 dose did not result in a complete abortion, followed by the use of a suppository and additional medication, is my situation abnormal? Could there be other gynecological issues? 3.
When can I expect my next menstrual period? 4.
Should I consider switching to another obstetrics and gynecology clinic? Thank you for your response, and I appreciate your help.
Thank you.

weiwei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/06

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
After taking hormonal medications following a miscarriage, there may be a period of irregular menstrual cycles, with the duration varying from person to person.
2.
Seeking a second medical opinion is advisable.

Reply Date: 2021/05/06

More Info

After using RU486 for abortion, the timing of your next menstrual period can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, after a medical abortion, it is common for menstruation to resume within four to six weeks. However, several factors can influence this timeline, including individual hormonal levels, the regularity of your menstrual cycle prior to the abortion, and how your body responds to the medications used during the abortion process.

In your case, you mentioned that you underwent the RU486 regimen on March 30, followed by additional treatments due to incomplete expulsion of the pregnancy. It is not uncommon for some women to experience delays in their menstrual cycle after a medical abortion, especially if there were complications or if additional medications were required to facilitate the process. The presence of two lines on a pregnancy test after the abortion could indicate residual hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) hormone in your system, which can take time to clear after a pregnancy. This residual hormone can sometimes lead to confusion regarding whether the abortion was complete.

1. Two Lines on the Pregnancy Test: The appearance of two lines on a pregnancy test after an abortion can suggest that there is still some hCG in your bloodstream. This hormone is produced during pregnancy, and it can take several weeks to return to baseline levels after a pregnancy ends. If you are concerned about the possibility of retained tissue or incomplete abortion, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a blood test to measure your hCG levels or an ultrasound to ensure that your uterus is clear.

2. Unusual Symptoms: Given that you experienced complications with the abortion process, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you continue to have unusual discharge or if you experience significant pain, fever, or heavy bleeding, you should seek medical attention promptly. While some women may experience irregularities in their menstrual cycles after an abortion, persistent symptoms could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

3. Next Menstrual Period: As for when your next period will arrive, it is difficult to predict with certainty. Since you had complications and required additional treatment, it may take longer for your menstrual cycle to normalize. Typically, you might expect your period to return within four to six weeks after the abortion, but it could be delayed further due to the factors mentioned earlier. If your period does not return within this timeframe, or if you have concerns about your cycle, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider.

4. Changing Healthcare Providers: If you feel uncomfortable with the care you have received or if your concerns have not been adequately addressed, it is entirely reasonable to seek a second opinion or switch to a different healthcare provider. Your health and well-being are paramount, and you deserve to have your questions answered and your concerns taken seriously.

In summary, while it is common for menstrual cycles to be irregular after a medical abortion, persistent symptoms or confusion regarding pregnancy tests warrant further evaluation. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and seek additional care if needed. Your health is important, and ensuring that you receive appropriate follow-up care is crucial for your recovery and future reproductive health.

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