Medication Abortion: What to Expect After Taking RU486 - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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After taking RU486 (Mifepristone), it is common to experience a range of symptoms and changes in your body as it goes through the process of medication abortion. RU486 is designed to terminate an early pregnancy by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Following this, a second medication, usually Misoprostol, is taken to help expel the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

In your case, since you took RU486 on April 4 and were informed by your doctor on April 9 that the embryo had been expelled, it is important to understand what you are experiencing now. The discharge you describe, which includes yellowish fluid followed by brownish discharge with small blood clots, can be part of the normal process of your body clearing out the uterine lining and any remaining tissue.
1. Understanding the Discharge: The yellowish discharge you initially observed is not uncommon and can be a result of the body’s natural response to the hormonal changes after taking RU486. The subsequent brown discharge with blood and small clots may indicate that your body is continuing to expel any remaining tissue. Brown blood typically signifies older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus, which is also a normal occurrence post-abortion.

2. Menstrual Cycle Resumption: It is important to note that after a medication abortion, your menstrual cycle may take some time to return to its regular pattern. The bleeding you are experiencing could be the start of your next menstrual period, but it could also be part of the post-abortion bleeding. It is common for the first period after an abortion to be irregular and different in flow and color compared to your usual menstrual cycles.

3. When to Seek Medical Attention: If the bleeding becomes excessively heavy (soaking through two or more pads in an hour for two consecutive hours), or if you experience severe pain, fever, or any other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. These could be signs of complications such as retained tissue or infection.

4. Follow-Up Care: It is advisable to have a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to ensure that the abortion was complete and that there are no complications. They may perform an ultrasound or other tests to confirm that your uterus is clear.

5. Emotional and Physical Well-being: Remember that experiencing a medication abortion can also have emotional effects. It is important to take care of your mental health during this time. Reach out to supportive friends, family, or counseling services if you feel overwhelmed.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing could be a normal part of the post-abortion process, but it is always best to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance based on your specific situation.