Post-Abortion Concerns: What to Do When Blood Doesn't Clear

Issues Related to Abortion Aftermath

Hello doctor, I took RU486 in mid-July, and the clinic has been prescribing me medication since then.
However, I haven't completely expelled the blood.
Last week, the doctor performed a procedure on me, and I had a follow-up appointment where the doctor said I need to continue taking medication.
However, I will be traveling abroad for two weeks.
The bleeding has gradually decreased, but I took a pregnancy test today, and the second line is still faintly visible.
Should I take a herbal remedy, or what should I do? My next follow-up appointment is in two weeks.

Miss Hsu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/17

Dr. Xu Junrui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

After undergoing a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, it is possible to have two lines on a pregnancy test.
Additionally, if the bleeding has decreased, it may not be necessary to drink herbal soup; you can wait for the uterus to naturally contract and expel any clots, and simply return for your scheduled follow-up appointments.

Reply Date: 2015/08/17

More Info

After an abortion, it is common for women to experience a range of physical and emotional changes, including prolonged bleeding or spotting. In your case, it seems that you have undergone a medical abortion using mifepristone (RU486) and have had a follow-up surgical procedure to ensure that the uterus is clear of any remaining tissue. The fact that you are still experiencing some bleeding and have a faint positive pregnancy test can understandably cause concern.

1. Prolonged Bleeding: It is not unusual for bleeding to persist for several weeks after an abortion. The duration and amount of bleeding can vary significantly from person to person. After a surgical procedure, it is expected that the bleeding should gradually decrease. If you are still experiencing significant bleeding or if it suddenly increases, it is essential to seek medical attention, as this could indicate retained products of conception or other complications.

2. Positive Pregnancy Test: A faint positive line on a pregnancy test after an abortion can occur because the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) can take time to return to baseline levels. It is not uncommon for hCG to remain detectable for several weeks following an abortion. If you are still getting a positive test after two weeks, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a blood test to measure your hCG levels, which can help determine if the levels are decreasing appropriately.

3. Herbal Remedies: Regarding the use of herbal remedies like "生化湯" (a traditional Chinese herbal formula often used postpartum), it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements, especially after a medical procedure. While some women find herbal remedies helpful for recovery, others may experience adverse effects or interactions with medications. Your doctor can provide guidance on safe options for recovery based on your specific situation.

4. Follow-Up Care: Since you mentioned that you will be out of the country for two weeks, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour), fever, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical care immediately, even if you are abroad. If your bleeding continues to decrease and you are feeling well, it may be acceptable to wait until your return for your follow-up appointment.

5. Emotional Well-Being: It is also important to address any emotional or psychological concerns you may have following the abortion. Many women experience a range of feelings, including relief, sadness, or guilt. If you find that you are struggling emotionally, consider reaching out to a mental health professional or a support group for women who have gone through similar experiences.

In summary, while some bleeding and a positive pregnancy test can be normal after an abortion, it is essential to stay vigilant about your health. Keep track of your symptoms, and do not hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any concerns. Your healthcare provider is your best resource for personalized advice and care during this time.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Abortion Bleeding: Causes and Concerns

I would like to ask about my situation. I had an abortion on March 9, and I experienced bleeding until March 21. I did not have any bleeding on March 22, but on the evening of March 23, I suddenly had a small amount of bright red bleeding that stopped almost immediately. Why coul...

Dr. Chen Liqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, basically, having an ultrasound during a follow-up visit and finding that the pregnancy has ended is one diagnostic method. If Pei-Chen still feels uneasy, it is recommended to go to a medical facility to have a blood test to check the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) le...

Prolonged Bleeding After Abortion: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Dear Doctor, I underwent an abortion procedure a little over a month ago, but my menstruation has not stopped since then. I have returned to the outpatient clinic multiple times for medication; while taking the medication, the bleeding decreases slightly, but it resumes once I s...

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear online friend, Hello! It has been over a month since your abortion procedure, and you are still experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding. This is something to be concerned about! A thorough examination is necessary to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment. You...

Post-Medication Abortion Concerns: Understanding Bleeding and Treatment Options

Hello, Doctor: About a month and a half after a medical abortion, I started experiencing bleeding similar to a menstrual period, which lasted for three weeks. I visited the doctor three times during this period. During the first visit, the doctor performed an ultrasound but did n...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
About a month and a half after a medical abortion, I started experiencing bleeding similar to a menstrual period, which lasted for three weeks. I visited the doctor three times during this period. During the first visit, the doctor performed an ultrasound but did not clearly indi...

How to Manage Complications After Medical Abortion: A Patient's Guide

On May 11, I underwent a medical abortion at a small clinic and have been in severe pain for the past few days, experiencing heavy bleeding. On the evening of May 27, I returned to the clinic for a follow-up, where a urine test indicated that I still showed signs of pregnancy. Th...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. After a medical abortion, if pregnancy is still detected, ectopic pregnancy must be ruled out (which can lead to significant internal bleeding in severe cases). 2. After a medical abortion, if there is still heavy bleeding, it is necessary to rule out incomplete placental de...