After Abortion – Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Expect Following My Abortion?

Knowing what to expect after an abortion can help you feel more comfortable and prepared during your recovery.

Whether you have undergone a surgical abortion or a medication abortion (abortion pill procedure), your body needs time to recover, and you may experience temporary physical and emotional changes.

Here’s what to expect after an abortion:

  • You may experience cramping (similar to menstrual cramps, but sometimes more intense).
  • You may experience bleeding and/or spotting for 3 to 6 weeks, which may include small clots. Some women experience no bleeding, which is also normal.
  • A normal period should begin within 4 to 8 weeks (the bleeding may be heavier, darker, or lighter than what is normally experienced)
  • Pregnancy symptoms should subside within one week. Most of the time they go away the same day.
  • Some women may experience breast engorgement with the breast filling with milk. If they become painful or have secretions, the patient should wear a tight fitting bra continuously for several days. Ice packs may be applied for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. The patient must refrain from any direct stimulation to her breasts during this time (i.e. breast massage, suckling, or shower water).
  • Patients may experience a wide range of emotions (anxiety, depression, sadness, relief, etc). You may call our offices if you are experiencing distress and other feelings of discomfort. There is no charge for this service.
  • Patients can ovulate as early as ten days to two weeks following an abortion. Sperm can live for five days. Be sure to use barrier methods of birth control (female and male condoms, spermicides, diaphragm) and hormonal birth control methods (depo provera, Nuva ring, birth control pills) which should be started shortly after the abortion procedure.

Most women recover without complications and can gradually return to their normal daily activities within a few days.

However, it is important to understand which symptoms are expected, how to manage discomfort, and when to contact your healthcare provider.

Contact us if you need help.

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