Post-Abortion Bleeding & Spotting After Intercourse: What to Know

Question
hello doctor,
i had an abortion on 30th jan 2010 and post-bleeding lasted around 3 weeks which was very light towards the 2nd week. After abortion i had unprotected sex (1st encounter after abortion) on 26th feb 2010. the next night i had light spotting and now it has increased a bit but since 2 days happening on and off. im confused if this is my 1st period after abortion, since i normally have them a week before the date it happens. OR if it's general bleeding after sex and i need to have the emergency contracpetive pill OR if it's infection? im really confused plz help me out!! thanku sooo much!
-susan

Answer
Dear Susan,
The amount of bleeding you are describing sounds normal.  It is common to have bleeding for three weeks after an abortion, especially when it gets lighter after the 2nd week.  It is also common and normal to have increased bleeding or spotting after sex.  There is usually some residual blood in the uterus, and sex stimulates the uterus to contract.  This expels the blood.  It can be red, brown, clots, or spotting.  This is all normal and healthy, and nothing to be concerned about.  You should consider birth control to avoid getting pregnant again.
There is more information on bleeding and birth control after abortion on my website: http:/www.earlyabortionoptions.com.
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan