{"id":265094,"date":"2022-09-13T16:58:50","date_gmt":"2022-09-13T20:58:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oviahealth.com\/?post_type=article&p=265094"},"modified":"2022-09-15T15:14:06","modified_gmt":"2022-09-15T19:14:06","slug":"what-to-expect-after-an-abortion","status":"publish","type":"article","link":"https:\/\/www.oviahealth.com\/guide\/265094\/what-to-expect-after-an-abortion\/","title":{"rendered":"What to expect after an abortion"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Nearly one million abortions happen every year in the U.S., so if you\u2019re seeking more information about what to expect after an abortion, you are not alone. About 1 in 4 people who can become pregnant will have an abortion by the time they\u2019re 45. Some will have more than one. Whatever your circumstances, let\u2019s talk about what to anticipate in the days and weeks after your abortion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first days<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The type of care you will receive and what you can expect after an abortion depends on how far along your pregnancy is and if you plan to have a medical abortion (taking pills) or a surgical abortion. Surgical abortions are also called D&C or D&E. D&C is dilation and curettage, D&E is dilation and evacuation. They are two distinct procedures done depending upon gestation age at the time of termination. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Surgical abortions take place at a hospital or clinic, while the abortion pill can be taken at home (though some people will take part of the treatment with a provider). As you plan, make sure to pick up pads in various absorbencies (including the heaviest flow), Ibuprofen, and a heating pad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most people who take pills for an abortion will have 1-2 days of heavy bleeding and cramping. This may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and\/or diarrhea. It\u2019s likely you\u2019ll pass tissue and clots in addition to bleeding during this time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day of a surgical abortion, you will need a ride home because the sedation you\u2019ll receive will make it unsafe to drive. Most people feel sleepy and some feel nauseous. A few hours after, most of the sedation will have worn off, and you\u2019ll feel tired and crampy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After the first 1-2 days, most recoveries look similar whether you had a medical or surgical abortion. Most people describe bleeding like a period, with cramping that is usually managed well by medications like Ibuprofen and warmth (warm drinks and a heating pad both help). Try to rest for 1-2 days if possible, as lots of activity will generally cause heavier bleeding and cramping. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weeks one-two<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Expect bleeding to slow down over about 1 week, with some discharge or spotting lasting 1 week more. This discharge can be black, brown, pink or mucousy. Sometimes discharge or spotting can last for a few weeks, although this is less common.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your abortion was performed later in pregnancy, you may have breast\/chest changes \u2014 this can range from soreness to severe engorgement and milk production. Wearing a supportive bra and icing your chest will help (so will the Ibuprofen you\u2019re already taking for cramps). Some people also add Cabocreme or cabbage leaves to their care. If you are having pain for more than 1-2 days, reach out to your provider for support. If you can\u2019t talk to your provider, monitor for signs of a breast infection. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After week two<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Many people find their menstrual cycle takes 1-3 months to get back to their normal, though it is possible to ovulate right away (before your next period), so take steps to prevent pregnancy or try again depending on your situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your abortion happened later in pregnancy, then it\u2019s more common to experience longer amounts of bleeding, discharge and cramping. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your emotions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The range of emotions after abortion varies as much as the reasons for needing one. You could be feeling immense relief, sadness or just be ready to move on. Whatever your experience is, your feelings are valid. There are also significant hormonal changes at play, knowing that you can expect some ups and downs can help you prepare for them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It may feel taboo to talk about your abortion and \u2014 depending on where you live \u2014 it may not feel like a safe option. If you\u2019re able, talking to a trusted partner or friend can be validating and can help you process your experience. If you\u2019re unable to talk to someone, writing in a journal or doing other activities like meditation can help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you need some more support, there are after-abortion hotlines to call, including https:\/\/exhaleprovoice.org\/resources\/<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to avoid after an abortion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Until you stop bleeding, you should generally avoid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n