Expert: Doctor Early Options - 11/14/2009

Question
Ihad first aboortion on 10th jan, 2009 and i had second on 13th nov, 2009.my ouestion is when i had first abortion it was bleeding very heavily but this time its not bleeding that much, is it normal and when i'll get my period after this?
Thanks a lot!


Answer
Dear Kavita,
Thank you for your question about what to expect with bleeding after abortion. It is normal to either bleed heavily or lightly after an abortion.  I would have no concerns about having a different bleeding experience after this abortion compared to your previous experience - it does not indicate a problem.  

It can be very difficult to know when you have your next period after an abortion.  You can have irregular bleeding, spotting, or clots in the months after an abortion, so you may or may not be able to tell the difference between bleeding from the abortion and bleeding from your period.  Most women will get there period between 3-6 weeks after an abortion.  Your next period can also be delayed 1-3 months.  This is common and normal.

Irregular bleeding does not indicate a problem.  The most important concern is to not get pregnant again.  Many women do not understand that you can get pregnant, even if you are bleeding after an abortion.  So, make sure you get on birth control or use protection to avoid another unwanted pregnancy.  

There is more information on bleeding after abortion on my website: http://www.earlyabortionoptions.com  

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
Early Abortion Specialist
New York City