Irregular Bleeding After RU486: What You Need to Know

Q: Irregular Bleeding After RU486: What You Need to Know

Hello Cookie： It is recommended that you return to the obstetrics and gynecology department that prescribed your medication for a detailed ultrasound examination to ensure safety. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Dai Qihan, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

My period is missing?

Doctor, good afternoon.
I would like to ask about my situation.
I took RU486 from May 15 to 17, and after a week, I had a follow-up appointment where the doctor said everything was normal.
However, I continued to have bleeding for nearly a month, and after that, my bleeding situation became strange.
I went to see the doctor again, and he prescribed me hemostatic medication.
However, as soon as I stopped taking the medication, I would start bleeding again, even with slight movement, but the amount was only one or two drops.

By early July, I bled again, but the amount was significant, so I thought it might be my menstrual period.
Normally, my period lasts for five days, but this time it stopped completely by the third day, and I still experienced one or two drops of bleeding with slight movement.
When I went to see the doctor again, he prescribed me hemostatic medication for three weeks.
After finishing the medication, the next day, on July 29, I bled again, and the amount was still significant, but by the third day, it reduced to one or two drops and continued like that.
I have had ultrasounds done, and they said my uterus and ovaries are normal.
However, I really don't know if this is my menstrual period or abnormal bleeding.
This situation started after I took RU486.
I have seen several doctors, and they have only prescribed me hemostatic and menstrual regulation medications, but the situation remains the same.
I still have one or two drops of bleeding, but the color of the blood is dark red, which is different from the color of my normal menstrual blood.
Additionally, the heavier bleeding lasted for one or two days without any blood clots.

Is there a possibility that there is an issue elsewhere that the ultrasound cannot detect? Should I get a Pap smear? I hope the doctor can understand my concerns and help me with some answers.
I have been troubled for a long time and am very scared.
Thank you.

kuki, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/02

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello Cookie: It is recommended that you return to the obstetrics and gynecology department that prescribed your medication for a detailed ultrasound examination to ensure safety.
Sincerely, Dr.
Dai Qihan, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2003/08/02

More Info

Understanding irregular bleeding after taking RU486 (mifepristone) can be quite complex, especially given the variations in individual responses to the medication and the subsequent physiological changes that may occur. RU486 is primarily used for medical abortion, and it works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the continuation of pregnancy. After taking RU486, many women experience bleeding as the body expels the pregnancy tissue. However, the bleeding patterns can vary significantly from person to person.

In your case, it seems that you have experienced prolonged and irregular bleeding since taking RU486. Initially, you were informed that everything was normal during your follow-up appointment, but the bleeding has since become erratic. It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular bleeding after a medical abortion, and this can last for several weeks or even months. The bleeding can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal fluctuations, the body's healing process, and the expulsion of remaining tissue.

The fact that you are experiencing light bleeding (one or two drops) after stopping the hemostatic medication suggests that your body may still be adjusting. It is important to note that while some women may return to a regular menstrual cycle relatively quickly, others may experience irregular cycles for a longer period. The color of the blood, such as the wine-red hue you mentioned, can also indicate that the blood is older or has been retained for a longer duration, but it does not necessarily signify a problem.

Regarding your concerns about whether this bleeding is normal or indicative of an underlying issue, it is essential to consider a few points:
1. Follow-Up Care: Continuous follow-up with your healthcare provider is crucial. If you have already had multiple appointments and ultrasounds that indicate your uterus and ovaries are normal, this is reassuring. However, if the bleeding persists or worsens, further evaluation may be warranted.

2. Hormonal Imbalance: After a medical abortion, hormonal levels can take time to stabilize. This can lead to irregular bleeding patterns. If your doctor has prescribed medications to help regulate your cycle, it may take some time for these to take effect.

3. Possible Retained Tissue: If there is any retained tissue from the abortion, it could lead to ongoing bleeding. This is something that can be assessed through ultrasound or other imaging techniques. If there is a concern about retained products of conception, your doctor may recommend further intervention.

4. Cervical Health: If you are concerned about your cervical health, such as the need for a Pap smear, it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider. Regular screenings are important for overall reproductive health.

5. Psychological Impact: The emotional and psychological impact of experiencing a medical abortion can also contribute to anxiety about physical symptoms. It is important to address any emotional distress you may be feeling, as this can affect your overall well-being.

In summary, while irregular bleeding after taking RU486 can be concerning, it is often a part of the body's adjustment process. Continuous communication with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your symptoms and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If you feel that your symptoms are not improving or if you have new concerns, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and it is important to advocate for yourself during this time.

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