Blood Clots After Medical Abortion: Causes and Next Steps

Medication-induced abortion

After a medical abortion, since the gestational age is very small and the embryo measures only 0.1 cm, the original doctor mentioned that the embryo is no longer present at its original location and that everything has been cleared out, but there are blood clots nearby.
There was no explanation for the presence of the blood clots.
What are the typical reasons for the formation of blood clots? Would you recommend seeking a second opinion from another doctor for further examination?

Jane, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/12

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Consult the original physician for clarification.
If the issue remains unresolved, seek a second opinion from another physician.

Reply Date: 2016/01/12

More Info

After a medical abortion, particularly in early pregnancy, it is not uncommon for patients to experience some bleeding and the passage of blood clots. Understanding the causes of these blood clots and the appropriate next steps is crucial for ensuring your health and peace of mind.

Causes of Blood Clots After Medical Abortion
1. Uterine Contraction: After the abortion medication is administered, the uterus contracts to expel the pregnancy tissue. These contractions can lead to the formation of blood clots as the uterine lining sheds. Blood clots are essentially a collection of blood that has coagulated, and they can vary in size.

2. Incomplete Expulsion: Although your doctor mentioned that the embryo was no longer visible, there may still be residual tissue in the uterus. This can lead to further bleeding and clot formation as the body attempts to expel any remaining tissue. Incomplete abortion can occur in a small percentage of cases, which may necessitate further medical evaluation.

3. Hormonal Changes: The hormonal fluctuations that occur after an abortion can also affect the menstrual cycle and lead to changes in bleeding patterns, including the presence of clots.

4. Uterine Health: Conditions such as fibroids or polyps can also contribute to abnormal bleeding and clotting. If you have a history of such conditions, they may play a role in your current symptoms.

Next Steps
1. Monitoring Symptoms: It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour), severe pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, you should seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of complications such as infection or retained products of conception.

2. Follow-Up Appointment: If you have concerns about the blood clots or any other symptoms, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They may perform an ultrasound to ensure that the uterus is clear of any remaining tissue and assess the overall health of your reproductive system.

3. Seeking a Second Opinion: If you feel uncertain about the information provided by your current doctor, seeking a second opinion can be beneficial. A different healthcare provider may offer additional insights or alternative treatment options. It is your right as a patient to seek clarity and reassurance regarding your health.

4. Blood Tests: In some cases, your doctor may recommend blood tests to check your hormone levels (such as hCG) to confirm that they are returning to pre-pregnancy levels, which can indicate that the abortion was complete.

Conclusion
In summary, the presence of blood clots after a medical abortion can be attributed to several factors, including uterine contractions, incomplete expulsion of tissue, and hormonal changes. It is crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if you have any concerns. If you feel uneasy about your current care, do not hesitate to consult another healthcare provider for a second opinion. Your health and well-being are paramount, and you deserve to feel confident in the care you receive.

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