Bleeding happens after an abortion. This is true whether you had a medical abortion or a surgical procedure. It is a normal part of the recovery process. However, the amount of bleeding and how long it lasts can vary from woman to woman.
In today’s article, we’ll discuss how long you might bleed after an abortion. We’ll also cover what is considered normal and when you should seek medical attention. Keep reading to learn more.
How Long Do You Bleed After the Abortion Pill?
Vaginal bleeding typically begins around two hours after taking misoprostol.[1] This is the second medication used in a medical abortion. Once bleeding starts, it can last for about 9 to 16 days.[1]
In some cases, it may continue for up to 30 days or even longer.[1] Every person’s body responds differently, so your experience may not look exactly like someone else’s.
How Long Do You Bleed After a D&C?
A surgical abortion is also called a dilation and curettage, or D&C. You may begin bleeding right away after the procedure. The bleeding may continue for a few days, or it may taper off into light spotting. In total, bleeding and spotting may last for up to 4 weeks.[2]
How Can You Stop Bleeding After an Abortion?
Unfortunately, you cannot stop the bleeding yourself after an abortion. Your body is healing, and the bleeding is part of that process. However, there are a few ways to manage your symptoms as you recover[2]:
- Use pads to absorb the bleeding and change them every 2 to 4 hours. Changing pads regularly helps prevent infection.
- Do not use tampons or put anything in your vagina for at least 1 week.
- Do not have vaginal intercourse for up to 3 weeks, or until your doctor says it is safe to do so.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the first few days of recovery, including lifting objects heavier than 10 pounds.
- Take any medications, such as antibiotics, exactly as instructed.
- Rest as much as you need to.
How Much Bleeding Is Normal After an Abortion?
The amount of bleeding you experience depends on a couple of factors. These include the type of abortion you had and how far along you were in your pregnancy.
The abortion pill tends to cause more bleeding than a surgical abortion.[3] One study found that patients who took the abortion pill lost up to 101 milliliters of blood. Women who had surgical abortions lost up to 53 milliliters.[3] This difference is significant, but both amounts can be within the range of normal.
That being said, it is possible to hemorrhage after an abortion. Heavy bleeding is a warning sign you should not ignore. If you are soaking through a pad in less than an hour, you may be experiencing severe blood loss.[2] If this happens, contact your doctor right away.
When to Call Your Doctor
Bleeding after an abortion is normal. However, it is important to know the warning signs of hemorrhaging and infection. Some symptoms require prompt medical attention. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the following[2]:
- Bleeding so heavy that it requires you to change pads more often than every hour
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Pain or swelling in one leg
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Continued pain or pregnancy symptoms beyond 2 weeks
- Fever that does not go away
- Vaginal drainage with a foul odor and/or that looks like pus
Abortion Information in Athens, Ohio
Abortion is a major decision. It is important to understand the risks and side effects and could impact your health in the future. Pregnancy Resource Center is a safe place to ask questions and get answers. We can help you explore all of your pregnancy options so you can make a fully informed decision.
Give us a call at (740) 592-4700 or schedule your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!
Please be aware that Pregnancy Resource Center does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, November 15). Mifepristone (Mifeprex). MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600042.html
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2023, January 1). Abortion – procedure – aftercare. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000658.htm
- Bridwell, R. E., Long, B., Montrief, T., & Gottlieb, M. (2022, October 23). Post-abortion Complications: A Narrative Review for Emergency Clinicians. The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9683756/