Does Miscarriage Change Vaginal Odor? Post-Abortion Symptoms - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Does the odor change after a miscarriage?


Hello doctor, I took RU486 for an abortion on November 11.
I have had follow-up visits and have taken uterine contraction medication.
As of November 27, I am still experiencing bleeding, and the blood does not smell the same as before; it now has an unusual odor.
Is this a normal phenomenon? Can I still consume herbal soup?

yun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/27

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Ms.
Yun: Hello, please continue to follow up after taking RU486 until your doctor confirms that the abortion has been completed successfully.
As for the duration of bleeding, it varies from person to person and can last anywhere from 7 to 28 days.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2022/11/27

More Info


After a miscarriage, it is not uncommon for women to experience various physical and emotional symptoms as their bodies recover. One of the concerns you have raised is about the change in vaginal odor following your recent abortion using RU486. It is important to understand that while some changes in vaginal discharge can be normal after a miscarriage, a significant change in odor, especially if it is foul or unusual, may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.

Typically, after a miscarriage, the body goes through a process of expelling the remaining tissue from the uterus. This can lead to bleeding and changes in vaginal discharge. The discharge may initially be heavier and can vary in color and consistency. It is also common for the discharge to have a different odor than usual due to the presence of blood and the healing process. However, if the odor is particularly strong or unpleasant, it could be a sign of infection, such as endometritis, which is an infection of the uterine lining.

In your case, since you mentioned that you are still experiencing bleeding and that the odor has changed, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may perform a physical examination and possibly an ultrasound to ensure that there are no retained products of conception and that your uterus is healing properly. Additionally, they may check for signs of infection, which can include fever, increased pain, or unusual discharge.

Regarding your question about consuming herbal remedies like "生化湯" (Shenghua Decoction), it is essential to approach this with caution. While some herbal remedies are traditionally used to help with recovery after childbirth or miscarriage, it is crucial to ensure that they do not interfere with your healing process or exacerbate any potential infection. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements, especially after a medical procedure like an abortion.

In summary, while some changes in vaginal odor and discharge can be expected after a miscarriage, a foul odor is not typical and may indicate an infection or other complications. It is essential to seek medical advice to rule out any serious issues and to ensure that your recovery is proceeding as expected. Your health and well-being should always be the priority, and your healthcare provider can offer the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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