What to Expect After Undergoing an Abortion

After an abortion, your body and mind need time to heal. Although the procedure is safe and performed on an outpatient basis, it’s important to take a day or two to recover before returning to normal activities. Ask your women’s clinic about any special instructions regarding home care and don’t hesitate to call with any questions or concerns after your procedure.

The Next Few Days
After your abortion procedure, you will be monitored at the clinic for a few hours to ensure you are in good health. Once you are sent home, your doctor will give you information regarding rest and any warning signs that require a call to a doctor. Take it easy for a day or two in order to let your body heal and adjust. You may experience vaginal bleeding for a few days or weeks after your abortion—use a pad rather than a tampon to absorb the flow.

The Return To Normal Activities
You can return to work or class within a day of your abortion, depending on how you are feeling.  Avoid strenuous exercise or vaginal intercourse for one to two weeks. You can begin ovulating again as soon as two weeks after an abortion, so birth control is recommended if you wish to avoid pregnancy.

Your Mental Health
You may feel a range of emotions following your abortion, including relief, worry, or even depression. Some women feel sadness regarding the circumstances of their abortion, rather than sadness about the decision to undergo the procedure. Allow yourself to feel all of these emotions and speak to someone you trust about your experience. This may be a staff member at your women’s clinic, a friend, a family member, or a teacher or religious leader.

The staff at Washington Surgi-Clinic is here to help you through the abortion process with care and compassion. We respect your rights and your decision, and are dedicated to protecting your privacy, dignity, and health during this time. Please call us at (202) 659-9403 or click through our website for more information regarding abortion and your health.