Delayed Menstruation After Abortion: What to Expect

Delayed menstruation?

Hello doctor, I underwent an abortion on July 28 (the fetus was approximately 11 weeks at that time).
After the procedure, I did not experience any bleeding and have had three follow-up appointments confirming that everything is fine.
I had sexual intercourse on August 19, and on August 27, I noticed a slight trace of blood after urination, but it was just a tiny bit.
I still have not gotten my period, and I have taken three home pregnancy tests, all of which came back negative.
Is this normal? How long should I expect my period to return? Thank you!

danxin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/09/21

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Dr.
Tsai Yong-long of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare,
After an induced abortion, the ovulation date is often uncertain (as we interrupt the entire cycle artificially), which is why it is common to conceive again shortly after the procedure.
Of course, there may also be issues related to endocrine imbalance.
It is advisable to undergo blood tests, urine tests, and ultrasound examinations at the obstetrics and gynecology department to determine the situation.
Additionally, the presence of blood in the urine may be due to a urinary tract infection, which should also be investigated.
Wishing you good health and all the best!
Sincerely,
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2011/09/21

More Info

After an abortion, it is common for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle, and delayed menstruation can be a normal occurrence. In your case, since you underwent a surgical abortion on July 28, it is important to understand the physiological changes that can affect your menstrual cycle and what you might expect moving forward.

Firstly, after an abortion, it can take some time for your body to return to its pre-pregnancy state. The hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy and the subsequent abortion can lead to irregularities in your menstrual cycle. It is not unusual for menstruation to be delayed for several weeks or even longer after an abortion. The average time for a woman to resume her menstrual cycle can vary widely, typically ranging from 4 to 8 weeks post-abortion, but some women may take longer.

In your situation, you mentioned that you had no bleeding after the procedure and that you had follow-up appointments confirming that everything was normal. This is a positive sign, indicating that your body is healing properly. The slight spotting you experienced on August 27 could be a result of hormonal changes or the body adjusting after the abortion rather than a sign of menstruation.

Regarding the timing of your next period, it is difficult to predict exactly when it will arrive. Factors such as stress, hormonal balance, and individual health can all influence the timing of your menstrual cycle. If you have had unprotected intercourse on August 19 and have taken multiple pregnancy tests that have returned negative results, it is likely that you are not pregnant. However, if your period does not arrive within a few weeks, it may be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

It is also important to note that if you experience any unusual symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or persistent spotting, you should seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of complications that may require further investigation.

In summary, delayed menstruation after an abortion is generally normal, and your body may take some time to regulate itself. It is essential to be patient and allow your body the time it needs to heal. If you have concerns or if your menstrual cycle does not resume in a reasonable timeframe, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

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