Post-Medical Abortion: What to Expect After Your Period

Question
Dear Dr. Joan,

Over a month ago I had a medical abortion and I went to my
follow-up and everything was perfect. Two weeks later I had
my 1st period, but it never became red and clotty, it was
brown and mucousy and very light. It lasted only 5 days
(normally my periods are very heavy, lasting 7-10days), and
never required anything heavier than a light days tampon.

Now, over a week following my first period, I feel bloated
in the lower abdomen, have had lower back pain, am
extremely fatigued, need to urinate often, and can not
taste foods properly. I am concerned that I am pregnant
again. I know that it is rather easy to become pregnant
following a medical abortion, and am wondering if maybe my
last period was so light because I am actually pregnant
again. I have not begun to feel morning sickness, which I
had from the beginning of the last pregnancy (and I don't
know why they call it morning sickness, I had it 24/7), but
I have the overall feeling of being pregnant. What are your
thoughts? Am I crazy?

Miss. B

Answer
Dear Miss B,
The first thing you should do is to check a pregnancy test - it should be negative from the first pregnancy by now.  The symptoms you are describing do not sound like a new pregnancy, and may or may not be related to the abortion.  It would be best for you to go to the doctor and get an evaluation.  Your symptoms are consistent with a urinary tract infection and/or an incomplete medical abortion. You should be seen in the next day or two.
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City