Bleeding during abortion.
Bleeding during medical abortions involving mifepristone and misoprostol is a very common way of terminating early pregnancies. However, it is important to distinguish between normal bleeding and concerning health and safety.
What to Expect
Few or no bleeding at all may occur after taking mifepristone. Bleeding usually begins within a few hours of using misoprostol, sometimes starting as heavy as a period, while others have much less blood loss. The woman might pass large clots as the body gets rid of pregnancy tissue. This heavy bleeding usually lasts for several hours but should start easing by the next day.
Normal Bleeding
Normal bleeding in medical abortion involves:
Heavy Bleeding Initially: Heavy bleeding with clots is common for the first few hours after taking misoprostol.
Moderate to Light Bleeding: After the initial heavy bleeding, it should be reduced to moderate or light bleeding and spotting, which can last up to two weeks.
Cramping: With bleeding, cramping occurs when the uterus contracts.
Concerning Signs
Although heavy bleeding and cramping are expected, certain signs mean you should see a doctor:
Excessive Bleeding: Excessive vaginal blood flow entails passing through more than two maxi pads every hour for two consecutive hours, demanding an urgent medical intervention.
Severe Pain: Severe pain in your abdomen or pelvis that does not go away even with pain medication.
Prolonged Heavy Bleeding: If after 24 hours you continue experiencing excessive blood flow, then it could be indicative of incomplete abortion or other complications.
Signs of Infection: Symptoms such as fever, chills, smelly vaginal discharges, or feeling unwell generally imply the possibility of infection that requires prompt management.
Managing Bleeding
Manage bleeding during a medical abortion by using sanitary pads instead of tampons to minimize the risk of infection. Use towels to monitor blood loss and rest while keeping hydrated. You should also take any prescribed pain medicine.
Follow-Up Care
You must attend follow-up appointment(s) to confirm complete abortion and discuss any still symptoms or concerns with the healthcare provider. This visit ensures that your body has healed appropriately with no complications.
Conclusion
Understanding normal and concerning bleeding during a medical abortion will help you manage it better. You should always follow instructions from your health care provider as well as get immediate attention if you notice anything unusual. Visit Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic for more information or to schedule an appointment. Your well-being is our priority; we are here to support every step you make throughout your medical abortion since all aspects are covered at Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic.