Post-Abortion Cramping: What's Normal & When to Worry

Question
I just  had a medical abortion on Thursday. I wasn't bleeding much until Sunday.  Its a normal flow but I'm cramping. Is that normal? Also, I did not take the antibiotics they gave me...is that bad?

Answer
Dear NL,
This sounds like a normal response to a medical abortion.  Sometimes it takes a few days for the bleeding to occur.  Cramps should be like period cramps.  They should come and go, and they should respond to ibuprofen (800mg) or over the counter pain medications.   If the cramps are persistent and worsening, you should be seen.  This would indicate that some of the tissue got stuck in your cervix, and it was not complete.
I would not worry about the antibiotics.
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City