Post-Abortion Bleeding and Its Complications

Post-abortion persistent bleeding

In late January, my girlfriend and I had a child, but after evaluation, we decided to terminate the pregnancy.
She took medication, and everything seemed normal until we had intercourse on February 7.
Initially, we did not use a condom, but there was no ejaculation.
After that, we used condoms on February 13 and 19.
During the period from January to February, there were intermittent episodes of bleeding.
At the end of January, a check-up revealed 0.01% placental tissue, but the doctor did not schedule a follow-up after prescribing the medication.
Is there a possibility that something went wrong in this process? Recently, she has been experiencing nausea and cramping.

A Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/21

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, after taking abortion medication, patients must return for a follow-up appointment within one to two weeks.
Clinical examination, β-HCG measurement, and ultrasound scanning are necessary to confirm whether the embryo has been completely expelled.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2016/02/21

More Info

Post-abortion bleeding and its complications can be a concerning issue for many individuals. It is important to understand the physiological processes that occur after an abortion, as well as the potential complications that may arise.

After an abortion, whether it is a medical abortion (using pills) or a surgical procedure, it is common for individuals to experience some degree of bleeding. This bleeding, known as lochia, is the body’s way of expelling the remaining tissue from the uterus. In the first few days following the procedure, the bleeding may be heavier and can include blood clots. Over time, the bleeding should gradually decrease and eventually stop. However, if bleeding persists beyond a few weeks or becomes heavier, it may indicate a complication such as retained products of conception or an infection.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing intermittent bleeding from late January to early February, which could be attributed to the body’s adjustment after the abortion. The presence of a small amount of retained placental tissue (0.01%) noted during your examination could also contribute to ongoing bleeding. It is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure that the uterus has cleared completely and to address any concerns regarding retained tissue.

The symptoms you describe, such as nausea and cramping, could be related to hormonal changes following the abortion or could indicate a potential complication. Nausea can occur due to hormonal fluctuations, especially if your menstrual cycle has not yet returned to normal. Cramping is also common as the uterus contracts back to its normal size. However, if the cramping becomes severe or is accompanied by heavy bleeding, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Regarding your sexual activity after the abortion, it is generally advised to wait until you have had a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to ensure that you have healed properly. Engaging in sexual intercourse too soon can increase the risk of infection and may complicate the healing process. Using protection, such as condoms, is important to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, especially during the recovery period.

If you are experiencing persistent symptoms or have concerns about your health, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination, including an ultrasound if necessary, to assess your uterus and ensure that there are no complications. Additionally, they can provide guidance on managing your symptoms and discuss when it is safe to resume sexual activity.

In summary, post-abortion bleeding is a normal part of the recovery process, but it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If you experience any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and support. Your health and well-being should always be a priority, and seeking medical advice is the best way to ensure a safe recovery.

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