Is It Normal to Have Light Bleeding 12 Days After Abortion?

Is it normal to still have menstrual bleeding 12 days after undergoing a surgical abortion?

Hello Doctor: I am 8 weeks pregnant and there was no heartbeat detected in the fetus.
The doctor recommended a surgical abortion.
After the procedure, I had a follow-up appointment where the ultrasound showed that a normal endometrial thickness is about 7 cm, while mine is 8 cm, indicating good recovery.
Due to my allergies to certain medications, the doctor was hesitant to prescribe stronger drugs, so I took the medication prescribed by the doctor and passed some menstrual blood.

Question 1: It has been 12 days now, and I am still experiencing bleeding, but the amount is very minimal each day.
Is this normal? I do not have any abdominal pain.
Should I see a gynecologist again?
Question 2: Since I have to wear sanitary pads every day, which is uncomfortable, should I consider seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or buy herbal formulas like Shenghua Decoction to help expedite the process?
Question 3: Will it be more difficult to conceive after the procedure?
Question 4: Is it safe for me to drink ginger soup?
Question 5: With this slow bleeding, will I eventually clear everything out? How long might this take? Thank you, Doctor.

VIVI, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/06

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
The bleeding duration is slightly prolonged; it is recommended to return for a follow-up examination.

2.
In very rare cases, individuals may have difficulty conceiving due to uterine injury or inflammation.

3.
Ginger soup can be consumed.

Respectfully, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/01/06

More Info

It is not uncommon to experience light bleeding for an extended period after an abortion, especially within the first few weeks. In your case, having light bleeding 12 days post-abortion can be considered normal, particularly if the bleeding is minimal and not accompanied by significant pain or other concerning symptoms. After an abortion, the body goes through a process of healing, and the uterine lining, which was thickened during pregnancy, begins to shed. This can result in light bleeding that may last for several days to weeks.

Regarding your specific questions:
1. Is it normal to have light bleeding 12 days after an abortion? Yes, light bleeding can be normal. The amount of bleeding can vary significantly from person to person. If the bleeding is light and you are not experiencing any severe pain or other symptoms (such as fever or foul-smelling discharge), it is likely a part of the normal recovery process. However, if you have concerns or if the bleeding increases in volume or changes in character (e.g., becoming heavy or accompanied by pain), it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

2. Should I see a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner or take herbal remedies? While some individuals find relief through TCM or herbal remedies, it is essential to approach this cautiously. If you are considering herbal treatments, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure that they will not interfere with your recovery or any medications you may be taking. Additionally, if the bleeding is bothersome, you might want to consult your gynecologist for advice on managing your symptoms.

3. Will having an abortion affect future pregnancies? Generally, having an abortion does not significantly impact future fertility. Most women can conceive again after a normal recovery period. However, complications from the procedure, such as infection or retained tissue, can affect fertility. If you have concerns about your reproductive health or future pregnancies, discussing these with your healthcare provider is essential.

4. Can I drink ginger tea? Ginger is often considered safe and can have anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking ginger tea may help with overall well-being, but it is essential to ensure that it does not interfere with any medications you are taking. If you have any specific health concerns or conditions, it is best to consult your doctor before adding new herbal remedies to your diet.

5. Will the bleeding eventually stop? Yes, the bleeding should gradually decrease and eventually stop as your body heals. The duration of bleeding can vary, but it typically lasts from a few days to a couple of weeks after an abortion. If you notice that the bleeding persists beyond what you consider normal or if it becomes heavier, it is crucial to seek medical advice to rule out any complications, such as retained products of conception or infection.

In summary, light bleeding 12 days after an abortion can be normal, but monitoring your symptoms is essential. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. Your health and peace of mind are paramount during this recovery period.

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