Bleeding after an abortion is completely normal, but the bleeding varies depending on the type of abortion the patient must have undergone. To better understand abortion and its side effects (bleeding), here is a highlight of the two major abortions;
1. Medicinal abortion: This is done with the use of medicines like mixed protocol, and they usually come in the form of tablets. After taking abortion pills, you should experience heavy bleeding and painful cramping. You will also see blood clots.
2. In-clinic abortion: This refers to the surgical removal of the fetus. You may have some bleeding after this procedure, and this bleeding lasts for a few days; bleeding could vary from being just a few spots to being heavy.
However, bleeding does not occur for everyone. Some patients do not bleed at all after the procedure.
Source: Doctors’ Circle World’s Largest Health Platform
In-clinic abortion is usually performed for pregnancies that have surpassed their first trimester. At the same time, medicinal abortions can be done for pregnancies of 1-9 weeks.
How to stop abortion bleeding
Bleeding after abortion is not something that can be stopped. Bleeding comes with abortion for some women. It is the natural order of things, and these things cannot be stopped. According to studies, the timeline for bleeding after abortion is about 1-2 weeks. This is what is expected. However, some women may see spots till they reach their next period.
Truly, there is no cause to worry over after abortion bleeding EXCEPT in the instance where the bleeding refuses to stop after the two-week timeline or if the bleeding becomes excessive. In such cases, the only thing you can do is visit your doctor immediately.
Tips on how to manage post-abortion bleeding
1. Ensure you get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Fatigue or dehydration could make the bleeding worse.
2. Wear pads, not tampons: Using tampons after an abortion can increase the chance of an infection. Use sanitary pads only.
3. This is no time for intercourse. Having sex could lead to infections and complications. No sex till your doctor says otherwise.
4. Nutrition: Ensure that you maintain a healthy diet, as this can help you heal faster.
5. Avoid any activity that may give you stress. There will be no heavy lifting during this period.
6. Follow the instructions of your doctor. That is the only way you can heal from your procedure.
7. Avoid anything that could irritate you. That means no swimming in chlorinated pools and no hot tubs.
How to know when your bleeding is abnormal
1. Using more than one pad per hour.
2. Experiencing painful cramps that do not improve with pain medications.
3. Seeing smelly vaginal discharges or experiencing a fever
4. Seeing large blood clots that could be the size of a golf ball.
If you should see any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Bleeding after an abortion is normal and can range from one to two weeks. However, if you should experience any abnormal symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Disclaimer
A medical professional did not write this article. If you are experiencing any worrisome symptoms or you need advice, please contact your doctor.
