Prolonged Bleeding After Medication Abortion: What You Need to Know

Intermittent bleeding for two months after a medical abortion?

I had a medical abortion on October 1st, and the embryo was expelled on October 5th.
My menstrual period started on October 20th and lasted until November 3rd.
The second period began on December 1st and ended on December 14th.
Since then, up until today, December 25th, I have been experiencing light bleeding.
I would like to know if this indicates that the medical abortion was not complete.
What should I do about my current situation?

Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/25

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the factors affecting vaginal bleeding are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraceptive pills, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, lesions of the uterus or cervix, infections, ovulation, pregnancy, miscarriage, and breastfeeding, among others.
It is recommended that if symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult a gynecologist for further evaluation.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2023/12/25

More Info

Prolonged bleeding after a medication abortion can be concerning, and it's important to understand what is considered normal and when to seek further medical attention. Based on your description, it appears that you experienced a medication abortion on October 1, with the expulsion of the embryo occurring on October 5. Following this, you had a menstrual period starting on October 20 that lasted until November 3, and your second period began on December 1 and ended on December 14. However, you are now experiencing ongoing light bleeding since then.

In general, after a medication abortion, it is common to have some bleeding for a few days to a couple of weeks as the body expels the pregnancy tissue. This bleeding can vary in amount and duration from person to person. Some individuals may experience heavier bleeding initially, followed by lighter spotting, while others may have a more prolonged bleeding pattern.
The fact that you had a normal menstrual cycle following your abortion is a positive sign, as it indicates that your body is returning to its regular hormonal rhythm. However, the ongoing light bleeding you are experiencing since December 14 raises some questions. It is essential to consider a few factors:
1. Incomplete Abortion: One possibility for prolonged bleeding is that some pregnancy tissue may still remain in the uterus, leading to ongoing bleeding. This can happen even if you initially passed the embryo. An ultrasound can help determine if there is any retained tissue.

2. Hormonal Imbalance: After an abortion, your body may take some time to readjust hormonally. This adjustment can sometimes lead to irregular bleeding patterns, including prolonged spotting.

3. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or infections can also cause abnormal bleeding. If you have any other symptoms, such as fever, severe pain, or an unusual odor, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

Given your ongoing bleeding, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend an ultrasound to check for any retained tissue and assess the overall health of your uterus. Additionally, they can evaluate your hormonal levels and rule out any other potential causes of the bleeding.

In the meantime, keep track of your bleeding patterns, noting any changes in color, consistency, or volume, as well as any associated symptoms like pain or discomfort. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.

In summary, while some bleeding after a medication abortion can be normal, prolonged bleeding warrants further evaluation. It is essential to communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Remember, your health and well-being are the top priority, and seeking medical advice is always a prudent step when you have concerns about your body.

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