Post-Abortion Concerns: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Post-Abortion Issues

Hello Doctor, I had a medical abortion on September 18, followed by uterine contraction medication on September 20.
After my follow-up appointment on September 25, the doctor performed an ultrasound and noted that there were still blood clots, and prescribed another three days' worth of uterine contraction medication.
After my follow-up on October 9, the pregnancy test was negative.
Since then, I have had a small amount of brown discharge.
On October 19, I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to help my body expel the discharge more quickly.
By around October 21, the discharge turned a darker color, close to black, and then on October 25, I started experiencing slight red bleeding.
On October 27, I had a significant amount of bleeding and blood clots, similar to a menstrual period, but more than my usual menstrual flow.
Is this normal? Should I see a gynecologist for an examination? Thank you.

Ada, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it seems that you are experiencing your menstrual period, which is normal.
Just monitor the situation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/10/27

More Info

It sounds like you have been through a very challenging experience with your recent abortion, and I want to acknowledge the emotional and physical toll it can take on someone. After an abortion, it is common to have a range of symptoms, including bleeding and discharge, but it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely to ensure that everything is progressing normally.

From your description, it seems that you have experienced a variety of discharge colors and consistencies following your abortion. Initially, you had some brown discharge, which is often old blood that the body is expelling. The transition to darker, almost black discharge can be concerning, as it may indicate retained products of conception or other complications. The subsequent red bleeding and passage of clots can also be part of the normal healing process, but it can sometimes signal complications such as infection or incomplete abortion.

In general, after a medication abortion, it is expected to have some bleeding and cramping as the body expels the pregnancy tissue. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly:
1. Heavy Bleeding: If you are soaking through two or more pads in an hour for two consecutive hours, this is considered heavy bleeding and requires immediate medical evaluation.

2. Severe Pain: While some cramping is normal, if you experience severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, you should consult a healthcare provider.

3. Foul Smelling Discharge: If you notice a foul odor coming from the discharge, it could indicate an infection.

4. Fever: A fever over 100.4°F (38°C) can be a sign of infection and should be evaluated by a doctor.

5. Prolonged Symptoms: If your symptoms persist beyond what is expected (usually a few weeks), or if you have concerns about the amount or color of your discharge, it is wise to seek medical advice.

Given that you have already experienced a significant amount of bleeding and the presence of blood clots, it would be prudent to visit your gynecologist for a follow-up examination. They may perform an ultrasound to check for any retained tissue and ensure that your uterus is healing properly. It is better to err on the side of caution, especially after an abortion, to rule out any complications.

Additionally, it is essential to take care of your emotional well-being during this time. Abortion can be a complex emotional experience, and it is normal to have feelings of sadness, relief, or even guilt. If you find that you are struggling emotionally, consider reaching out to a mental health professional or a support group that specializes in post-abortion care.

In conclusion, while some bleeding and discharge can be normal after an abortion, the symptoms you describe warrant a visit to your healthcare provider. They can provide the necessary evaluations and support to ensure your physical and emotional health during this recovery period. Remember, you are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

Similar Q&A

Post-Abortion Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention After Sex

If you had sexual intercourse two weeks after an abortion and experienced bleeding and abdominal pain the next day, how long these symptoms will last can vary. It's important to monitor your symptoms closely. If the bleeding is heavy, or if the pain is severe or persistent, ...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Miss Xiaoning: If you experience bleeding and abdominal pain after sexual intercourse following an abortion, it is important to return to the original clinic for an examination. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Post-Abortion Nausea: When to Seek Medical Advice?

You underwent an abortion on September 24, and had sexual intercourse on October 3 and 4 (with confirmed condom use). However, starting on October 6, you began experiencing nausea that has persisted, and on October 9, you noticed breast swelling, which is causing you concern. Sho...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The response indicates that it is unlikely to be pregnant again so soon after the last pregnancy, especially since you have been using condoms for contraception. There are several possibilities: 1. The previous miscarriage may have been incomplete, and some embryonic tissue could...

Post-Abortion Menstrual Concerns: Understanding Your Symptoms and Cycle

Hello, I underwent a surgical abortion on October 21, and I haven't had my menstrual cycle by December 10. During this time, I've experienced occasional abdominal pain, similar to menstrual cramps. Out of concern, I visited a gynecologist on the evening of December 10, ...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The first two menstrual cycles after an abortion may be irregular due to hormonal influences. It's best to observe for one or two cycles. Dr. Cheng Jin-He, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu City Hospital.

Understanding Recent Gynecological Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

In August 2018, after taking emergency contraception for two years, I unfortunately became pregnant. At that time, I was about a month along and experienced frequent sharp pains in my lower abdomen that caused cold sweats. When I sought medical attention, the doctor said it was n...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your symptom description, it is recommended to maintain a light diet, have a regular daily routine, and keep the perineal area clean and dry. Avoid wearing tight clothing. You may soak in a bath to alleviate symptoms. If symptoms persist, please consult a physicia...