Post-Abortion Concerns: Discharge, Potential Pregnancy & What to Do

Question
I had a abortion on oct, 12 2009 then I went and did my check up on oct 27 ,2009 my doctor said I was good and my pregancy was ended then I had unprotected sex on november 1 , 2009 know it s november the 14 and I have been urinating every 2 to 3 hours and I got white clear discharge. Sometimes I think my period is coming but I got clear or white thick discharge that turns yellow when dry am so worried but could I bet pregrant agin and how soon could I take a pregancy test by the way my boy friend did withdraw and ejaxculate outside of me am so worried

Answer
Dear Tameka,
It is common and normal to have a delayed period after an abortion, so I wouldn't be concerned that you are pregnant from your period being late for a few days.  I have seen it take as long as 3 months to get back into a regular menstrual cycle.  

However, you are at a small risk of pregnancy.  Withdrawal is not the best method to avoid pregnancy.  You may want to check a pregnancy test.  Get the kind with two lines, with two tests in a pack.  Take one now, and take one in one week and compare them.  A faintly positive line would most likely indicate hormones from the pregnancy in October.  If you repeat it in a week and it is still faint or negative, then you are fine.  If it turns darker next week, that would indicate a new pregnancy.  If they are both negative, then of course you are fine.  

The symptom of white discharge (even if it turns yellow when it dries) is most likely normal.  If you have itching, an odor, or yellow discharge these can indicate a vaginal infection that should be evaluated. Urinary frequency with no other symptoms is usually also normal.  Burning or hesitancy(the feeling like you have to urinate but then you get to the bathroom and there is little urine or just a dribble) indicate a urinary tract infection that should be evaluated. Urinary frequency and white discharge are not common signs of pregnancy.

There is more information on my website: http://www.earlyabortionoptions.com

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
Early Abortion Specialist
New York City