How to deal with prolonged bleeding after medication-induced abortion

Patient's question:

I had a medication-induced abortion. At the time, the doctor examined the expelled tissue and said it had already come out, so they administered an oxytocin injection. However, two weeks later, I am still bleeding, though the amount is not heavy, and I occasionally pass soft, large clots. My body feels otherwise normal. What could be the reason for this? After one week of medication abortion, I had sexual intercourse, assuming it was already fine. Will this have an impact?

Doctor's answer:

Hello: The bleeding after medication abortion generally lasts for 1-3 weeks, with the overall pattern being: the amount of bleeding decreases day by day. If the bleeding decreases and then increases again, or if it does not decrease at all or gradually increases, it is abnormal. Common reasons are as follows:
1. Incomplete abortion: This is the main cause of bleeding after medication abortion. It can usually be diagnosed through a gynecological examination and ultrasound.
2. Infection after medication abortion: If the ultrasound shows no residual tissue in the uterus, it is necessary to consider an infection within the uterus, as the blood from the abortion provides an excellent medium for bacterial growth. If the condition is severe, the uterus may be tender to touch during a gynecological examination, accompanied by fever and other symptoms.
3. Poor blood clotting function: Some people may easily develop bruises or swelling from minor bumps or injuries, which may indicate poor blood clotting. During medication abortion or induced abortion, this can lead to heavy bleeding or prolonged bleeding. It is recommended that you undergo a detailed medical examination for a proper diagnosis.
Due to the prolonged bleeding time and relaxed cervix after medication abortion, there is an increased risk of bacterial growth and retrograde infection. Therefore, if vaginal bleeding exceeds 7 days, it is advisable to take antibiotics for 3-5 days to prevent infection. If hygiene is not maintained after medication abortion, swimming or sexual activity during periods of reduced bleeding or temporary cessation of bleeding can lead to uterine cavity infection and endometritis. In such cases, the amount of vaginal bleeding may not be excessive, but it may have a foul odor, possibly mixed with yellowish discharge, or accompanied by mild lower abdominal pain. Treatment should involve adequate antibiotics, as well as the use of Eryngo Root Paste or Postpartum Transformation Decoction to promote the prompt expulsion of any remaining embryonic tissue. After the inflammation is controlled, if an ultrasound confirms residual tissue in the uterine cavity, further treatment can be administered.

📌 Related Posts