Post-Aspiration Abortion: Understanding Delayed Periods & Recovery

Question
I had the aspiration procedure Dec. 10th. I began taking birth control pills on Dec. 13th. I went back for my check up two weeks after the procedure, and the doctor said my body was healing just fine and to expect my period in a couple of weeks. That was Dec. 29th. I finished my first pack of birth control pills then quit taking them because I decided I wasn't ready to have sex anytime soon. I'm concerned because as of now, January 16th, I still don't have what I recognize as a period. Should I be alarmed? Last week I had one day of bleeding, but it was very dark and I only used one tampon. For the next two days, I had brown spotting only when I went for my daily run. This occured after I stopped taking the pills. Does this count as a period? I had no cramping and none of my usual pms symptoms.

Answer
Dear Dani,
Thank you for your question regarding bleeding after an aspiration abortion procedure. There is nothing to be concerned about.  It is common and normal to have a delayed period after an abortion, as long as you are not pregnant again.  It is also common and normal for birth control pills to cause a change or delay in periods, especially when you first start them.  From what you describe, everything sounds normal.  Your period should come in the next few weeks and may even take another month or two without indicating a problem. Your period may be irregular for the next few months. Don't worry, it will come back to a normal cycle.

There is more information on the aspiration abortion procedure, and periods and bleeding after abortion on my website: http://www.earlyabortionoptions.com

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
New York CIty