Recovering from any abortion experience is a highly individual experience. What you’ll feel afterward depends on the abortion method, any side effects you have, and whether you face complications.
You may want to bring a friend or support person with you to the abortion to drive you home and provide emotional support after the procedure.
As you recover, you should:
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your body needs extra nutrients as it heals.
- Get plenty of rest. You may be able to resume daily activities within a day or two, but speak with your medical team beforehand.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects for at least one week.
- Take any medication as prescribed (i.e., Advil, Motrin IB).
- Avoid tampons and sex until your medical team says they’re okay.
- Call your doctor if you are concerned about any symptoms.
Healing from any medical procedure isn’t linear. And with a surgical abortion, it’s vital to remember that your body underwent a major change with pregnancy and the subsequent termination.
True Care Women’s Resource Center knows that every woman’s experience differs. If you need to speak to a friendly face or seek abortion recovery services, we’re here for you.
What Can I Expect Afterward?
Physical Effects
With a surgical abortion, you will most likely experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Spotting can last for a few weeks.
Some women also experience dizziness, drowsiness, and/or nausea and vomiting. The severity of these side effects varies based on your procedure and overall health.
This procedure does carry risks. Though these complications are rare, they could affect your health and recovery time. They include:
- Infection
- Uterine perforation (when a surgical tool pokes a hole in the uterus)
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Damage to the cervix
If you experience worsening pain, fever, bleeding, or anything else that feels “off,” seek immediate medical treatment. While it’s normal to feel sore and uncomfortable after a surgical abortion, serious symptoms can indicate you are experiencing a complication.
Mental Health Effects
Not every woman will feel the same way after an abortion. You could feel relieved, upset, or any variety of emotions. However you feel, know that these feelings are valid.
There’s no way to accurately predict how you’ll feel after an abortion. However, the APA (American Psychological Association) found that some women experience sadness, grief, feelings of loss, and even depression or anxiety after the procedure.
If you struggle mentally after an abortion, know you aren’t alone. Other women have had similar experiences. If you find you can’t stop thinking about the abortion, are depressed, or are having suicidal thoughts, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider or a counselor right away.
True Care Women’s Resource Center provides referrals to abortion recovery programs to help you find healing. Whether your abortion was days ago or you’ve struggled for years, we offer compassionate support.
Here For You
True Care Women’s Resource Center has no-cost, confidential services. Whether you’re unexpectedly pregnant, considering your options, or have had an abortion, we’ll treat you with respect.
Contact us today to request an appointment.