Prolonged Bleeding After RU-486 Use: What to Expect - Obstetrics and Gynecology

More Info

---

Prolonged bleeding after taking RU-486 (mifepristone) can be a concerning experience for many women. RU-486 is primarily used for medical abortion, and it is typically effective within the first seven weeks of pregnancy. After taking this medication, it is common to experience some bleeding as the body expels the pregnancy tissue. However, the duration and nature of this bleeding can vary significantly from person to person.

In your case, having experienced deep brown bleeding for nearly a month after taking RU-486 on February 18 raises some important considerations. It is not unusual for women to experience bleeding for an extended period following a medical abortion, but the bleeding should gradually decrease in intensity and frequency. If you are still experiencing significant bleeding after four weeks, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

There are several reasons why prolonged bleeding may occur after taking RU-486:
1. Incomplete Abortion: Sometimes, the body may not expel all of the pregnancy tissue, leading to continued bleeding. An ultrasound may be necessary to determine if there is any retained tissue in the uterus.

2. Uterine Contraction Issues: The effectiveness of RU-486 relies on the body’s ability to contract the uterus and expel its contents. If the uterus does not contract effectively, it can lead to prolonged bleeding.

3. Hormonal Changes: After an abortion, the body undergoes hormonal changes that can affect the menstrual cycle and bleeding patterns. It may take some time for your hormones to stabilize, which can contribute to irregular bleeding.

4. Infection: Although less common, an infection in the uterus can also cause prolonged bleeding. Symptoms of infection may include fever, foul-smelling discharge, or severe abdominal pain.

Regarding your question about when the bleeding will stop, it is difficult to predict an exact timeline. Some women may experience bleeding for a few days to a couple of weeks, while others may bleed for several weeks. It is important to monitor the bleeding; if it becomes excessively heavy (soaking through a pad in an hour), is accompanied by severe pain, or if you have any other concerning symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Typically, bleeding after a medical abortion should decrease over time and eventually stop, often coinciding with the return of your menstrual cycle. However, if you are still bleeding heavily after a month, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may perform an ultrasound or other tests to determine the cause of the prolonged bleeding and recommend appropriate treatment.

In summary, while some bleeding is expected after taking RU-486, prolonged bleeding lasting nearly a month warrants further investigation. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns to ensure your health and well-being.