Two Months Post-Abortion: When to Seek Gynecological Care?

It has been two months since the menstrual period after the abortion?

Hello, doctor.
I underwent a medical abortion on May 1st, and the doctor informed me that my next menstrual period might take 60 days to arrive.
I started experiencing symptoms of menstruation, such as breast tenderness and abdominal pain, on June 20th, and I noticed an increase in vaginal discharge.
I took a pregnancy test in early July, which came back negative.
I then consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and took some herbal medicine, which alleviated the breast tenderness and abdominal pain, but my period still hasn't arrived, and there is minimal discharge.
I have a history of thyroid autoimmunity, but my recent blood tests have all come back normal.
Prior to the abortion, my periods were always early, but the flow was light.
Now, after the abortion, I haven't had a period.
Should I go for a gynecological examination, or should I wait a bit longer?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/07/09

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It has been over two months since the abortion, and menstruation has not yet returned.
It is essential to visit a gynecologist to determine the possible reasons for the delayed period and any necessary treatment.

Reply Date: 2009/07/09

More Info

After undergoing an abortion, it is not uncommon for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including delays or irregularities. In your case, you had an abortion on May 1st, and your doctor mentioned that your next period might take up to 60 days to arrive. Since you began experiencing symptoms indicative of menstruation around June 20th, such as breast tenderness and abdominal pain, it suggests that your body is responding to the hormonal changes following the procedure.

However, the absence of your period and the changes in your discharge can be concerning, especially since you have a history of irregular cycles and thyroid issues. It is important to note that hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact your menstrual cycle after an abortion. The body needs time to readjust, and this can sometimes lead to prolonged delays in menstruation.

Given that you have already taken a pregnancy test in early July that returned negative, it is likely that you are not pregnant. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fever, it is crucial to seek medical attention. These could be signs of complications such as retained products of conception or infection.

In your situation, since you have not had your period yet and are experiencing ongoing symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with your gynecologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including an ultrasound, to ensure that everything is healing properly and that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Additionally, considering your history of thyroid issues, it is essential to monitor your overall hormonal balance. Thyroid dysfunction can affect menstrual cycles, and while your recent blood tests may have shown normal results, it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

In summary, while some irregularity in your menstrual cycle following an abortion is normal, persistent symptoms warrant a follow-up with your gynecologist. They can provide reassurance, conduct necessary evaluations, and help you understand what to expect moving forward. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your reproductive health.

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