Medical Abortion: What To Expect In The First Few Weeks After

Medical abortion is a process of ending a pregnancy using medication, rather than surgery. The two drugs commonly used for medical abortion are Mifepristone and Misoprostol.

In this article, we will discuss what to expect in the first few weeks after a medical abortion.

What To Expect With Mifepristone and Misoprostol

Mifepristone and Misoprostol have a combined success rate in terminating pregnancies in the first trimester of pregnancy (3 to 12 weeks) of 94 to 99%.

They combine to cause the breakdown of the Uterine lining along with contractions. This in turn leads to vaginal bleeding and passing of the pregnancy tissue.

Some women may experience heavy vaginal bleeding similar to their menstrual period. The amount and duration of bleeding can vary, but most people stop bleeding within two weeks of their procedure.

What To Expect After Taking Misoprostol?

Following taking Mifepristone, Misoprostol is taken on the same day or 24 to 48 hours afterwards. Mild side effects such as chills, shakes and diffuse itchy rash may occur within 30 minutes of taking the medication.

Nausea, vomiting, fever and diarrhea may occur within the first 1 to 2 hours of taking Misoprostol. Lower abdominal pain, lower back pain and vaginal bleeding begin within two hours.

The heaviest bleeding and pain occur just prior to passage of the pregnancy tissue.

You may have side effects from the medicine such as nausea and diarrhea.

Can I Sleep After Taking Misoprostol?

Women who are 4 weeks or less pain may have very little bleeding or pain and are able to sleep through the abortion process.

How long Do You Bleed After An Abortion?

After the pregnancy tissue passes, the vaginal bleeding normally lasts 7 to 10 days. Most women experience no abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding after that period of time. Bleeding may last up to 30 days in 1% of cases.

”I am Still Bleeding Three Weeks After Abortion”

It is not uncommon for women to bleed for three weeks or longer after a medical abortion. If it happens, a follow up office appointment should be scheduled to assure no retained pregnancy products or continued pregnancy.

Light bleeding or spotting may last 2 – 4 weeks after an abortion.

How To Treat Smelly Discharge After Abortion?

A yellow discharge after a medical abortion is not uncommon, but it’s important to seek medical attention if the discharge has a strong odor or is accompanied by itching or burning.

How Long After Abortion Do Symptoms Of Pregnancy Go Away?

Nausea almost goes away immediately after the pregnancy tissue passes. It may take 3 to 5 days for breast nipple sensitivity and tenderness to resolve.

Persisting Signs Of Pregnancy After Abortion

When pregnancy symptoms do not immediately resolve after the abortion procedure (nausea, vomiting, no appetite, breast tenderness) there is a high chance that the abortion process either failed or there is a new pregnancy.

Dos and Don’ts After A Medical Abortion

There are some guidelines to follow after a medical abortion to promote healing and reduce complications. It’s important to avoid heavy lifting, using tampons, and having sex for two weeks after the procedure.

You should also avoid drinking alcohol, taking long baths, and using hot tubs.

It is advised to avoid alcohol after the abortion pill procedure. Drink Water!

Common Concerns After A Medical Abortion

Bleeding 4 weeks after a medical abortion can be a sign of a failed abortion, but it’s also possible for some people to continue to have light bleeding for a few weeks.

Constipation can also be a concern after a medical abortion, and drinking plenty of water and eating fiber-rich foods can help.

Infertility after a medical abortion is rare, and most people are able to get pregnant after a medical abortion without any problems.

Wrapping Up

After undergoing a medical abortion, the first few weeks are undoubtedly filled with various emotions, physical changes, and questions. It is important to keep in mind that no two experiences are the same.

Some women may have a more intense experience with more pronounced symptoms, while others may take comfort in knowing that their experience is different from someone else’s.

Regardless of where you stand on the spectrum, it is important to acknowledge and honor your own physical and emotional journey throughout the process. 

Remember that recovery is just as important for your overall wellbeing as the abortion procedure itself was.

The Fort Lauderdale Women’s Center is Offering The One Hour Abortion Pill Procedure – 3 to 14 Weeks. Patients who qualify may receive a significant discount in the price of the procedure if they meet certain criteria.

Call Us Now For Same Day Appointment.