Medication Abortion: Signs of Incomplete Miscarriage - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Medication abortion


Hello doctor, I took the first medication for medical abortion on August 7.
I had sexual intercourse on August 7 and August 9.
After having intercourse on August 9, I took the second medication for medical abortion.
On August 26, I experienced light bleeding.
Could this indicate an incomplete abortion?

Miss Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/27

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, after taking abortion medication, patients must return for follow-up within one to two weeks.
Clinical examination, β-HCG measurement, and ultrasound scanning are necessary to confirm whether the embryo has been completely expelled.
It is recommended that you ask the prescribing physician to arrange for these checks to determine if the expulsion is complete.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2015/08/27

More Info


Understanding medication abortion and the signs of incomplete miscarriage is crucial for ensuring your health and well-being. Medication abortion typically involves two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is taken first to block the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. After 24 to 48 hours, misoprostol is taken to induce contractions and expel the pregnancy tissue.

In your case, you mentioned taking the first medication on August 7 and the second on August 9, followed by experiencing some bleeding. It is common to have bleeding after taking these medications, as they work to expel the contents of the uterus. However, the presence of continued or unusual bleeding, such as the "微量出血" (slight bleeding) you experienced on August 26, can raise concerns about the completeness of the abortion.

Signs of an incomplete miscarriage or abortion can include:
1. Persistent Bleeding: While some bleeding is expected, if you experience heavy bleeding (soaking through one or more pads in an hour for two consecutive hours) or bleeding that lasts longer than a few weeks, it may indicate that not all pregnancy tissue has been expelled.

2. Severe Pain: Cramping and pain are common after taking the abortion medications. However, if you experience severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, it could be a sign of retained tissue or infection.

3. Fever or Chills: A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, accompanied by chills, could indicate an infection, which is a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention.

4. Foul-Smelling Discharge: If you notice a foul odor coming from vaginal discharge, it may suggest an infection.

5. Continued Pregnancy Symptoms: If you continue to experience pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea or breast tenderness, it may indicate that the pregnancy has not been fully terminated.

Given your situation, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend an ultrasound to check for any remaining tissue in the uterus. This is a common procedure to ensure that the abortion was complete and to rule out any complications.

In terms of your specific question about the slight bleeding on August 26, it is not uncommon to have some residual bleeding after a medication abortion, but it should gradually decrease over time. If the bleeding persists or increases, or if you experience any of the concerning symptoms mentioned above, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while some bleeding after a medication abortion is normal, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have any doubts or concerns about your health or the completeness of the abortion, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support. They can provide you with the necessary care and reassurance during this time.

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