Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I took abortion pills, and it has been 48 hours, and no bleeding has happened; only white discharge and a little cramping have happened.
Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
Thanks for reaching out. I know this can feel stressful, and I am here to help with accurate, compassionate guidance. Let us go over what might be happening and what your next steps should be.
Important clarification first
Can you confirm which pills you took and how you took them?
Usually, a medication abortion involves two types of pills:
Did you take both pills? And how did you take Misoprostol orally (in the cheek or under the tongue) or vaginally?
If you took both pills correctly and it has been 48 hours and still there is no bleeding, here are some possibilities:
1. The pills are still taking effect
For some people, bleeding can start up to 72 hours after taking Misoprostol. Cramping and white discharge may be early signs that it is starting.
2. The abortion might not be working effectively - Especially if only Mifepristone was taken without Misoprostol or if Misoprostol did not dissolve properly or was not absorbed fully.
3. Gestational age matters
If the pregnancy was earlier or later than expected, the response can vary.
Less than four weeks: Sometimes, not much tissue comes out, and bleeding is lighter.
What should you do now?
Short term - wait for the next 24 hours. Waiting a little longer, up to 72 hours, is still within the range for bleeding to start.
Keep monitoring for:
After 72 hours:
If no bleeding happens at all, you must follow up with a doctor. You may need another dose of Misoprostol or a pelvic ultrasound to check if the abortion is incomplete or did not happen.
When to get help urgently
Go to a doctor or ER (emergency room) if you develop a fever above 38°C (100.4°F), feel severe pain with no bleeding, have dizziness or fainting, and pass only white discharge for more than 72 hours with no bleeding.
Final note
You are not alone, and you are doing the right thing by asking. Please share the exact medications and doses you took. How long has it been since you took Misoprostol? How far along the pregnancy was (weeks). That way, I can give you even more tailored advice. Want to talk about it in more detail?
I hope I have answered your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Georges Hany Kozah
Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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