Expert: Shan Yi Sheng - 4/20/2010

Question
Dear Shan Yi Sheng,
In December I had an abortion and I got the IUD inserted as well.
Well, to this day I haven't had my period like I use to. I am not even sure if I have had my period since then. I did bleed the first week because of the abortion, but other then that it has been on and off. I have worn a tampon everyday since 3 weeks after my abortion.
I am concerned because my discharge is not white. It looks like dry blood. And sometimes I get blood clots. I don't know if the IUD has anything to do with it. Or if it is just my body that is taking a while to recuperate.
I never went back for my abortion check up... I couldn't get my self to go back. But I went about two weeks ago to check my IUD and I told them my problem and they said that everything was fine. That it was just taking my body a while to recuperate from the abortion. I have looked up other cases because I am really concerned. Thing is... girls that have the same problem as I do have it only for the first month. It has been 4 months since I had the abortion and I am still having these problems.
If you can please explain to me why my discharge is not the way it should be... If I should go get checked....

Answer
Hi Sol,
periods after an abortion tend to be irregular for a prolonged period.
Getting an IUD inserted after an abortion complicates the healing proces.
Dangerous it is not; but annoying that bleeding goes on.
Bloodcloths are also within the possible margin. Brownish blood is old blood.
I think  only patience will help you and do not worry too much.

Keep me posted if in two weeks time there is no change .
Bye for now,
Dr Shan