Post-Abortion Symptoms: What to Expect After Medication Abortion

Medication abortion

On October 28, I took the first dose of RU486, and on October 30, I took the second dose.
About ten minutes later, I experienced severe abdominal pain and nausea (I am not sure if I vomited the medication).
On October 31, due to uncertainty about whether the second dose was expelled, I returned for a follow-up.
An ultrasound examination showed that the embryo had been expelled, but there was still a significant amount of blood.
I was prescribed uterine contraction medication and instructed to return on November 3.
During that follow-up ultrasound, it was noted that there was only a small amount of blood remaining, and I was given another three days' worth of uterine contraction medication, with the advice that if I finished the medication without any bleeding, it would be fine.

Now, after the last follow-up and completing the medication, I have not had any bleeding, but I still have red or brownish discharge.
Is this a normal phenomenon? What should I be aware of?

Yuri Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/13

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Please return for a follow-up appointment within 2 days to check if the gestational sac has been expelled.
RU486 is known to have emetic effects, so we need to determine if the procedure was successful or if further monitoring is required.

Reply Date: 2015/11/13

More Info

After undergoing a medication abortion, it is common to experience a range of symptoms and changes in your body as it adjusts to the process. Based on your timeline and symptoms, it appears that you are experiencing typical post-abortion effects, but let’s break it down further.

When you took RU486 (mifepristone) and the subsequent medication (usually misoprostol), the goal was to terminate the pregnancy by causing the uterus to contract and expel its contents. The abdominal pain and nausea you experienced shortly after taking the second dose are common side effects of these medications. It is important to note that some women may experience significant cramping and discomfort, which can feel similar to strong menstrual cramps.

The fact that an ultrasound confirmed the expulsion of the embryo is a positive sign, indicating that the medication worked as intended. However, it is not unusual for bleeding to continue for a period after the abortion. The bleeding can vary in intensity and duration, and it may take a few weeks for your body to return to its normal state.
Regarding the red or brown discharge you are experiencing now, this can also be a normal part of the recovery process. Brown discharge often indicates older blood that is being expelled from the uterus, while red discharge may be fresh blood. It is common for women to experience spotting or light bleeding for several days or even weeks after a medication abortion.
Here are some key points to consider as you continue to recover:
1. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking through two or more pads in an hour for two consecutive hours), severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, or fever, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. These could be signs of complications, such as retained tissue or infection.

2. Follow-Up Care: It is essential to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. They will monitor your recovery and ensure that your uterus is healing properly. If you have concerns about the amount or color of your discharge, do not hesitate to reach out to your provider for advice.

3. Emotional Well-Being: The emotional impact of an abortion can be significant. It is normal to experience a range of feelings, including relief, sadness, or guilt. If you find that you are struggling emotionally, consider speaking with a counselor or joining a support group.

4. Rest and Recovery: Allow your body time to heal. Rest as much as possible, stay hydrated, and eat nutritious foods to support your recovery.

5. Future Contraception: If you are not planning to conceive again soon, discuss contraceptive options with your healthcare provider. It is important to have a plan in place to prevent unintended pregnancies in the future.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing, including the red and brown discharge, can be normal after a medication abortion. However, it is crucial to stay vigilant and communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns. Your body is undergoing significant changes, and with proper care and monitoring, you should be able to recover fully.

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