Expert: Doctor Early Options - 5/13/2009

Question
Hello,

I had an abortion about 7 weeks ago via the abortion pill. I bled heavily for about 5 hours and then continued to bleed for 5 days. I was 5 weeks. I feel as though it worked, I have no symptoms of being pregnant other than heartburn but I feel like I have brought that on myself by being such a worry wart. I still have not had my period. I didn't return to the abortion clinic for my follow up because I felt ashamed for even being there. I am married, a mother, and in my 30's. I am confident in my decision but being in that clinic made me feel shameful.

I should also mention that I had a baby 5 months ago so I don't know if my cycle is even regular from my pregnancy. My husband had a vasectomy and he did go back for a follow up visit. We were told everything was good. After I became pregnant, he went back for another follow up and vasectomy had reversed itself. So we have been careful but I guess nothing is 100%.

Answer
Dear Jill,
It is common and normal to have a delayed period after the abortion pill.  However, as you say, nothing is 100% - so you should get a pregnancy test from a pharmacy and check it to be sure the abortion pill was successful.  The pregnancy test should be negative by now. As long as it is negative, there is nothing to worry about.  Your period will eventually come back to normal.

It is very unfortunate that the clinic made you feel shameful.  Unfortunately, I hear this all too often.  You are a normal woman who went through a common and normal experience of dealing with an unwanted pregnancy.  Hopefully in the future we will have better medical care to help women with this situation.  

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City