CHILDREN BY CHOICE ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

After the abortion: Medical aspects

Following the abortion she may experience some cramping similar to period pain. This is quite normal provided the pain is not severe. She may also begin to bleed as her body sheds the lining of the uterus. A doctor should be consulted immediately if she experiences abnormal discharge and/or fever or severe pain. This could be an indication that an infection is developing. The clinic will provide her with instructions to follow to prevent an infection, these include: not having sexual intercourse, not using tampons, not swimming, and not bathing (having showers instead) for two weeks following the procedure. The clinic will also advise a post-operative check-up with her doctor.

Depending on which anaesthetic she was given during the abortion she may be feeling a little "hung over" from the anaesthetic. This may mean that she feels tired or a little nauseous. She will probably want to take things easy for the rest of the day after her abortion. Most women return to work, study or home duties the following day but she is advised to take things at a pace comfortable for her.