Expert: Pat G - 7/12/2011

Question
I had an abortion procedure that was unsuccesful 8 weeks ago. I had the procedure at planned parenthood ( WA ) but I bleed for six weeks post procedure and on the sixth week I passed the peanut sized embryo. I was freaked out and went back they got me ina right away for a check up. All that was performed was a pelvic exam to check for pain. It did hurt my on my ovararies and tube, but practioner told me everything was fine. Now less than a few days after the check up so starting on week 7 to 8 I am bleeding super heavy again, three full pads a day. I havn't quit bleeding for 8 weeks now except for a few days in between of  spotting. And I am extremely exuasted and get chills.I am making an appointment tomorrow with my regular obgyn. Is it possibile for me to be having a ongoing slow hemorrage?

Answer
Hello, Rachel,

How far along were you when you had an abortion, and what kind did you have?

If you had pills, that kind of bleeding is very common. In fact, women bleed to death after taking the pills. If you had a surgical abortion, then the bleeding is an indication something is seriously wrong. And if you had a surgical abortion, they should have gotten the embryo at the time. So I am assuming you had a pill abortion.

Planned Parenthood cannot be trusted. They do shoddy work and they violate the law. They're in it for the money. Whatever you do, don't seek any more help from them.

It sounds like you have bled enough that you are basically suffering from serious blood loss. If you have too little blood, chills would be a natural consequence. You could also be experiencing internal bleeding. Drink plenty of fluids to keep your blood volume up, and take cayenne, or eat foods with red hot peppers in them. You should see the doctor tomorrow. If the doctor cannot see you for a few days, find someone who can. This is very important. This kind of blood loss will also weaken your immune system. If you need help finding a doctor, let me know, and let me know what is the closest city. Given your emotional reaction, you would also benefit from some decent counseling. You can find an organization near you that will give you counseling; they know how to work with a woman who has experienced abortion. Look under "abortion alternatives" in the yellow pages.

Please let me know how things turn out. I will say a prayer for you. Don't risk your life having another abortion ever again. Take care.