Experiencing bleeding during a medical abortion is expected, but it’s essential to understand what constitutes normal bleeding and when it might signal a problem.
Read on to learn more about how to know the difference. Or, if you’re thinking about seeking a medical abortion and are looking for more information or a safe space to talk, contact us today for a no-cost, confidential appointment.
*Did you recently take the medical abortion drugs and think you might be experiencing an emergency? It’s essential to go to the emergency room as soon as possible and let them know that you’ve had a medical abortion.
What to Expect During a Medical Abortion
A medical abortion involves taking two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Together, these drugs work to terminate and expel the pregnancy through the vagina. This will inevitably cause abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
The bleeding usually starts a few hours after taking misoprostol and will be heavier than a regular period. Depending on the gestational age of the pregnancy, clots, ranging in size from small to large, are also common.
How Much Bleeding Is Too Much?
While heavy bleeding is expected, there are warning signs that indicate a need for immediate medical attention:
- Excessive blood loss: Soaking through two or more maxi pads per hour for two consecutive hours.
- Large clots: Passing clots larger than a lemon.
- Prolonged heavy bleeding: Bleeding heavily for more than 24 hours without signs of slowing down.
- Dizziness or fainting: Symptoms of severe blood loss, such as feeling lightheaded or faint.
- Severe pain: Intense abdominal pain that isn’t relieved by over-the-counter pain medication.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.
What to Do if You’re Unsure
If you’re unsure whether your bleeding is normal, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek guidance.
If you haven’t yet had a medical abortion but are thinking about one, it’s critical to get an ultrasound first. This scan will give you the essential information you need to know to stay safe—like how far along you are. The further along your pregnancy is, the more likely you are to experience a risk (like incomplete abortion, infection, and heavy/prolonged bleeding).
At Pregnancy Options, we offer no-cost, limited ultrasounds and a safe space to learn all you can about abortion and your other options.
Don’t delay. Contact us today. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
Pregnancy Options does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.Â