If you’re considering the abortion pill, you may be wondering what the experience would actually look like at home. You may have heard that bleeding is expected, but that alone doesn’t tell you much. How long might it last? How heavy could it become? Most importantly, how would you recognize bleeding that requires medical attention?
Understanding these distinctions before taking abortion drugs can help you know what to watch for. If you’re still researching your options, schedule a free, confidential appointment with HopePlace Fordyce today to ask questions and learn more about your pregnancy.
Why Medical Abortion Causes Bleeding
Medical abortion generally uses two drugs taken at different times. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for a pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
Because the uterus is contracting and emptying, vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping will occur. You may also pass blood clots during the process.
There isn’t one exact amount of bleeding that every woman will experience. Your experience may also be different from what a friend experienced or what you’ve read online. This is why it’s useful to know the medical guidelines rather than relying on comparisons.
Keep Track of How Quickly You’re Soaking Pads
One way to monitor blood loss is to pay attention to your sanitary pads. According to the Mayo Clinic, soaking through two pads per hour for two consecutive hours is a reason to contact a healthcare provider.
This is different from noticing that your bleeding is simply heavier than your normal period. If you reach this threshold, don’t assume you should wait another few hours to see whether things improve.
Heavy bleeding accompanied by fainting, significant dizziness, or weakness can be especially concerning and warrants prompt medical attention.
Your Body May Give You Other Warning Signs
The amount of bleeding isn’t the only thing to monitor. How you feel during and after the process matters as well.
Contact a medical professional if you develop severe or worsening abdominal pain, a persistent fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or other warning signs that make you feel that something isn’t right.
These may be associated with complications such as infection or an incomplete abortion. In this case, an incomplete abortion occurs when pregnancy tissue remains inside the uterus after the abortion. Depending on the circumstances, additional treatment may be necessary.
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or believe your health could be in immediate danger, go to the emergency room.
Gather More Information First
Before making any decision, it’s vital to learn more about your pregnancy. HopePlace Fordyce offers free pregnancy tests and ultrasound referrals for qualifying clients, with transportation assistance included. You can also ask questions about your pregnancy and the options available to you.
Schedule your free, confidential appointment with us today.
HopePlace Fordyce does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.