Expert: Diane Cheryl - 5/27/2010

Question
I had an abortion through the pills on 30 march at a 5 week pregnancy. I bled for 5 days and passed quite a few clots and also tissue ball. After 28 days, my "normal" periods resumed. However, I bled for 10 days and after a brief dry spell of 3 days, have been bleeding continually again. Though the bleeding is not heavy, I am not sure if it is normal. The clinic I went to did not provide any instructions for after- care and I was'nt even made to sign any legal documents. I made a mistake and did not return to the clinic for a check up post abortion. Now, I am not sure if the procedure was successful. Besides, I am finding it difficult to let my guy even touch me let alone have sex. Just cannot deal with the guilt as I killed both of ours first baby. I feel like killing myself too. Could you please tell me if this is normal.

Answer
Dear Pal,

It's extremely important that you have a checkup. Bleeding this long can lead to anemia as well as other severe problems. We have heard reports of women bleeding to death so please take care.
Can you go to a regular doctor to have a checkup? Please find a way.

Yes, it is somewhat common to have feelings of guilt after an abortion. Please call someone if you are feeling suicidal. Do you have any kind of religious beliefs that can help you? Please email me at CHERYL51@aol.com so I can give you some resources to help you during this time. It's extremely important that you email me as soon as possible and put ALLEXPERTS in the subject line.


In the meantime, please go to these resources and reach out for help
http://www.silentnomoreawareness.org

Talk soon. Look for a suicide hotline to call.

Diane Cheryl