Expert: Shan Yi Sheng - 7/7/2010

Question
dear doctor,
  I am from India. I underwent surgical abortion on the seventh week of my pregnancy.days following the abortion was good. I did not experience any pain for the bleeding that took place was trace. After that I noticed that the outer lips of the vagina started sweling and after that it started itching. It continued for couple of days but after that i felt the burning sensation and the pain became more and more severe. It started bleeding as well. Though the blood flow is not heavy but at times it feels like one and of late i found that clots are coming out. The burning sensation is stil persisting. It became difficult for me to continue the office.
         Is it normal after surgical abortion? OR i developed an infection? Or is it incomplete abortion? I am scared!! I consulted the doctor and she informed that it is due to the fungal infection but she doubts the incomplete abortion? do i have to undergo the same procedure once again? I underwent the operation on 23rd of June.. It  pains lot and is still bleeding..
Please help

Answer
Hi Anamika,
I think that this is a allergic reaction to the desinfectant used at your operation.
Do clean only with water; no soap !
Its a rare complication, and of course not normal after an abortion.
If it does not disappear, your doctor can prescribe some anti-allergic cream.
It is possibly a fungal infection which can be treated easily also.

Now that you still bleed has nothing to do with an incomplete abortion.
Bleeding patterns after an abortion tend to be irregular for a prolonged time.
Take care ! There are no safe days !
Use contraceptives if you do not want a baby.
Bleeding can go off and on for a long time.
No worry ,
Dr Shan