Concerns After Medical Abortion: No Follow-Up Visit and Symptoms

Did not return for a follow-up appointment after taking the abortion pill?

Doctor, my girlfriend took medication for an abortion at around 7 weeks, but she hasn't had time to follow up.
After taking the medication, she experienced heavy bleeding and abdominal pain, and she took uterotonics.
Is there still a chance that the baby is still there? (Currently, she no longer feels nauseous, has occasional light bleeding, and her breasts have shrunk compared to when she was pregnant.)

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/19

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Please make sure to return for a follow-up appointment to confirm whether a complete miscarriage has occurred.

Reply Date: 2015/07/19

More Info

After a medical abortion, it is crucial to monitor symptoms and follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure that the procedure was completed successfully and to address any complications. In your girlfriend's case, the symptoms she is experiencing—such as significant bleeding, abdominal pain, and changes in breast size—are important indicators to consider.

When a medical abortion is performed, it typically involves taking two medications: mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone necessary for pregnancy, and misoprostol, which induces contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue. After taking these medications, it is common to experience cramping and bleeding, which can vary in intensity. Some women may pass clots or tissue, while others may have lighter bleeding.

The fact that your girlfriend had a significant amount of bleeding and abdominal pain suggests that her body is responding to the medications. However, the absence of follow-up care raises concerns. It is essential to confirm whether the abortion was complete, as retained tissue can lead to complications such as infection or heavy bleeding. The symptoms of light bleeding and reduced breast size may indicate that the pregnancy is no longer viable, but they are not definitive signs.

In general, if a woman continues to experience bleeding or pain after a medical abortion, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform an ultrasound to check for any remaining tissue in the uterus and assess overall health. Additionally, they can provide guidance on managing any ongoing symptoms and discuss the next steps.

Given that your girlfriend has not had a follow-up visit, it is highly recommended that she schedules an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. This visit is crucial for her physical well-being and to ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly.

In summary, while the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing may suggest that the abortion was successful, the lack of follow-up care and the presence of ongoing symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to reproductive health. Encourage her to see a healthcare provider to receive the appropriate care and support during this time.

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