Early Menstrual Bleeding After RU486: What to Expect

The first menstrual cycle after taking RU486?

On October 8, I took the first dose of RU486, followed by the second dose on October 10.
During my follow-up appointment on October 13, the ultrasound and the doctor indicated that everything was cleared out well.
I had not experienced any bleeding during those days, but the doctor still prescribed me medication to help with uterine contractions.
After taking it once, I felt very dizzy, so I decided not to continue taking the contraction medication since I was no longer bleeding.
The doctor mentioned that my next menstrual cycle should arrive within six weeks at the latest.
However, I started experiencing bleeding on October 23, which was similar in volume to my usual menstrual flow.
I'm unsure if this is a normal menstrual cycle or abnormal bleeding, as it seems to have come too early—only two weeks after the procedure.

hana, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/23

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Generally speaking, after a miscarriage, the ovaries will temporarily stop producing new eggs, and menstruation will only resume once the ovaries return to normal function.
Therefore, it typically takes six weeks or longer for menstruation to return.
It is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment to investigate the cause of the bleeding.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/23

More Info

After taking RU486, it is not uncommon to experience some irregularities in your menstrual cycle, including early bleeding. RU486, also known as mifepristone, is a medication used for medical abortion, and it works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining a pregnancy. The subsequent bleeding you experienced after taking this medication can be attributed to the hormonal changes it induces in your body.

In your case, you mentioned that you took the first dose of RU486 on October 8 and the second dose on October 10. Following that, you had a follow-up ultrasound on October 13, where the doctor confirmed that everything was clear, and you had no bleeding at that time. However, after taking a uterine contraction medication (which is typically prescribed to help expel the contents of the uterus), you experienced dizziness and decided to stop taking it.
It's important to note that after a medical abortion, it can take some time for your menstrual cycle to return to its normal rhythm. The bleeding you experienced on October 23, just two weeks after the procedure, could be a result of your body adjusting to the hormonal changes. This bleeding may not necessarily be classified as a regular menstrual period but rather as post-abortion bleeding or spotting.
Typically, after a medical abortion, it is expected that you may experience some bleeding for a few days to weeks. The timing and amount of bleeding can vary significantly from person to person. Some women may have a heavier flow initially, while others may experience lighter spotting. The fact that you mentioned the amount of bleeding was similar to your usual menstrual cycle could indicate that your body is beginning to resume its normal hormonal function, but it is still early to determine if this is a regular menstrual period.

If the bleeding continues or becomes heavier than a normal menstrual period, or if you experience severe pain or other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider. They may want to perform another evaluation to ensure that there are no complications, such as retained products of conception, which can sometimes occur after a medical abortion.

In terms of what to expect moving forward, it is generally advised to monitor your bleeding and any other symptoms you may experience. Your next menstrual period may come earlier than usual due to the hormonal changes, and it may also be irregular for a few cycles as your body readjusts. Most women will have their cycles return to normal within a few months, but this can vary.

In summary, early bleeding after taking RU486 can be a normal part of the process as your body adjusts. However, if you have any concerns about the nature of the bleeding or if it persists, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and reassurance. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and health history.

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