When undergoing a medical abortion, Mifepristone is taken first. This medication causes minor bleeding in only a small percentage of women.

Misoprostol, the second drug, has a different effect. Most women experience significant bleeding within the first 1-4 hours of taking it.

Bleeding is a normal response. However, the color and consistency of discharge can vary among individuals. Initially, discharge may be light and gradually become darker and thicker before transitioning into a smear. Some women experience dark-colored discharge with clots from the start, which gradually decreases before stopping completely.

The duration of bleeding varies for each individual, with no strict timelines. However, heavy bleeding typically does not last more than 3-5 days (similar to a menstrual period). After this, a lighter bleeding phase may last 7-10 days before tapering off completely. In some cases, light spotting may continue until the next menstrual cycle.

The amount of bleeding depends on the duration of pregnancy—the longer the pregnancy, the heavier the bleeding.

Signs of Excessive Bleeding

• A key sign of excessive bleeding is the need to frequently change maximum-absorbency pads within a short period.

• If excessive bleeding lasts more than 2 hours, seek immediate medical attention.

• While significant blood loss is rare during medical abortion, it can pose a serious health risk in extreme cases.

An important sign of normal recovery is a gradual decrease in bleeding volume.

Potential Complications

1. Sudden Cessation of Bleeding

   • This may be due to a blockage of the cervical canal by blood clots or pregnancy tissue, requiring medical attention.

2. Prolonged Heavy Bleeding

   • This may indicate incomplete abortion, where remaining pregnancy tissue prevents the uterus from contracting fully and stopping the bleeding.

Both situations require an urgent consultation with a gynecologist to prevent health risks.

Post-Abortion Check-Up

• 10-14 days after the onset of bleeding, an ultrasound examination is recommended to confirm whether the abortion was fully completed and ensure no remaining tissue is left in the uterus.