Q18. What can I expect after my abortion?

A18. Once you have recovered from the anaesthetic (if you have had one) then you will be able to return home. The doctor at the clinic will assess you before you do so to ensure that you are well enough to go home.

Ask someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first day after your abortion.

This mainly applies if you have had a general anaesthetic.

Make sure you get plenty of rest and take painkillers to deal with any cramping and pregnancy type symptoms such as morning sickness or sore breasts.

Use sanitary towels rather than tampons during this time until the bleeding has completely stopped. Wait until your next period before resuming using them.

Avoid any long distance travel the same day as your abortion due to the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This applies to any form of long distance travel, whether by car, plane, boat or train.

You can return to work as soon as you feel well enough to do so. Some women return to work after a couple of days whereas others find that they need longer.

Wait for at least a couple of weeks after your abortion before resuming sexual intercourse. This is also a time when you are at your most fertile so ensure that you use some form of contraception.

Many women experience a range of emotions after an abortion which include guilt, sadness or in some cases a sense of relief. Take advantage of the counselling service offered by your clinic and talk to family or friends as well.

Give yourself time to adjust to the effects of having an abortion. This can take longer than you think but allow time for your body to heal both physically and mentally.

FAQS Index:

Abortion FAQs

1. My pregnancy is unplanned, should I consider an abortion?
2. Does abortion hurt?
3. Why is abortion such a controversial issue?
4. I am thinking about having an abortion; what do I need to consider?
5. Is there more than one type of abortion?
6. I am under 16; do I have to get my parents permission to have an abortion?
7. How much does an abortion cost?
8. What reasons do women give for having an abortion?
9. Should I have my abortion on the NHS or at a private clinic?
10. Does counselling help?

12. How do I arrange an abortion on the NHS?
13. How do I arrange an abortion at a private clinic?
14. What is a ‘late term abortion?’
15. How safe is an abortion?
16. Will having an abortion make me infertile?
17. What happens at the initial consultation?
18. What are the risks of an abortion?
19. What can I expect after my abortion?
20. What is the aftercare?
21. Will I be able to have a baby some point in the future even though I have had an abortion?