Post-Abortion Bleeding: What to Expect & When to Worry

Question
Doctor Joan:
On November 23, I had a medical abortion.  When I returned for a follow-up, the doctor saw that it was unsuccessful, so I had a surgical procedure.  I have been bleeding off and on since then for 6 weeks.  It is usually light, but got a little heavier around December 25, then went back to light.  It is sometimes brown, and sometimes has tissue and small blood clots in it.  I have very little cramping- maybe only a slight twinge every couple days.  Is this normal?  On my last ultrasound, they saw a small blood clot in my uterus- could it be from that?

Answer
Dear Sarah,
This kind of bleeding could be hormonal, or it also could be that there is still a clot that hasn't passed.  Either way, it is normal, as long as the cramping is not persistent or severe, and it should resolve on its own.  If it is hormonal, sometimes starting on birth control can help.  I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan