Post Medical Abortion: How To Take Care Of Yourself Afterwards

Medical abortion involves taking two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, to end a pregnancy. Known as the abortion pill, it is a commonly used method for inducing a miscarriage.

Although it is a safe and effective option, the physical and emotional impact can be significant.

Taking proper care of yourself after a medical abortion is crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery and minimizing or avoiding any complications.

Here are some tips on how to do just that:

1. Rest and Relaxation: After a medical abortion, it is important to get plenty of rest. Your body has gone through a lot, and it needs time to recover.

Try to avoid any strenuous physical activity for at least 24 hours after taking the second medication, misoprostol. This will help reduce the risk of complications and allow your body to heal.

If possible, take a day off work or any other responsibilities to give yourself the time you need to recover.

If 6 weeks or less pregnant when the medical abortion process is started, most women are able to go back to work or school and continue on with their routine activities to include sexual relations.

It is important and encouraged to begin a birth control method immediately.

2. Hydration: It is important to stay hydrated after a medical abortion. Drink plenty of water, and consider drinking electrolyte-rich beverages such as sports drinks or coconut water.

This will help replenish any fluids lost during the abortion and support your body’s recovery.

3. Pain Management: After a medical abortion, you may experience cramping and pain. Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve these symptoms.

If the pain is severe, it is important to contact your healthcare provider, as they may be able to prescribe stronger pain medication.

4. Eating Well: Eating well is important for overall health, and it is especially important after a medical abortion. Aim to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Avoid junk food and processed foods, as these can make you feel worse. If you are feeling nauseous, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.

5. Avoid Sexual Intercourse: It is important to avoid sexual intercourse for at least two weeks after a medical abortion unless 6 weeks or less pregnant as discussed above.

This will reduce the risk of infection and allow your body to heal. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a foul-smelling discharge or temperature greater than 100.4, you should contact your healthcare provider as these may be signs of an infection.

6. Emotional Support: A medical abortion can be a difficult and emotional experience. It is important to take care of your emotional well-being as well as your physical well-being. Reach out to friends and family for support, or consider speaking with a therapist.

There are also many support groups available for women who have had abortions, and these can be a great source of comfort and support.

7. Follow-Up Appointments: It is important to attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider after a medical abortion. This will help ensure that your recovery is going smoothly and that there are no complications.

Your healthcare provider may perform an ultrasound to confirm that the abortion was complete and check for any potential complications.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, taking care of yourself after a medical abortion is important for a smooth recovery and to minimize any complications.

Be sure to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, manage any pain, eat well, avoid sexual intercourse, seek emotional support, and attend all follow-up appointments.

If you experience any symptoms that are concerning, such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, temperature greater than 100.4, or a foul-smelling discharge, contact your healthcare provider right away.

The Fort Lauderdale Women’s Center is Offering The One Hour Abortion Pill Procedure – 3 to 14 Weeks. Patients who qualify may receive a significant discount in the price of the procedure if they meet certain criteria.

Call Us Now For Same Day Appointment.

Dr James S Pendergraft | Orlando Women’s Center | Abortion Pill Clinic | Articles On Abortion