What to expect after an abortion

Recovery

Your recovery is important; make sure you look after yourself. 

• After taking Mifepristone, you usually don’t have many side effects and nausea starts to decrease
• After taking Misoprostol, you will start bleeding, and this is when you will need some time off work for at least the first 24-48 hours
• As soon as you feel well enough, you can return to your normal activities, including work and exercise
• If you and/or your support person need a medical certificate, remember to ask us on the day of your appointment

Infection risk

To reduce the chances of infection, do not insert anything into your vagina for 1 week or until the bleeding has ceased.  This includes tampons, menstrual/moon cups, fingers, or having vaginal intercourse. If you want to use the vaginal ring or diaphragm for contraception, please discuss this with the doctor at your appointment. 

Possible signs of infection include: 

• Fever
• Feeling tired and rundown
• Feeling generally unwell or flu-like symptoms
• Ongoing abdominal lower tummy pain
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• If you experience any of these symptoms, please attend your nearest hospital.

Pain management 

Pain and cramping are normal after taking Misoprostol and we will provide you with strong pain relief. 

You can use these non-medication pain management techniques as well to help. 

Uterine massage: Frequent, firm massaging of your lower tummy area will help your uterus (womb) muscles and can reduce bleeding and cramping. It can also help prevent blood clots. 

Heat therapy: Hot water bottle, wheat bag or heat pack where pain is. To prevent burns, do not apply heat directly to your skin. Always follow the product instructions.

Medications: Follow directions on packaging and do not take more than instructed. 

Nausea

Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting are common after taking Misoprostol, we will provide anti-nausea medication. If you suffered from nausea  before your abortion, it may improve within 24 hours after the after taking MS-2 Step. 

Breast discomfort

Breast fullness or tenderness can last for 1 to 2 weeks. 

For relief:  

• Try wearing a supportive bra
• Take medication like paracetamol (e.g. Panadol) or ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen)
• Do not squeeze or massage your breasts.  

Please contact your us if your breasts are still sore after 2 weeks. 

Menstruation 

You should get your first menstrual period 4 to 6 weeks after your abortion. Some contraceptive methods may affect this. Please contact us if your period has not come in this time.  

Emotional wellbeing

Everyone has different feelings about their own procedure. There is no right or wrong way to feel after your abortion.

People feel different emotions after abortion.

Many feel relief. Some feel sadness or mixed emotions.  It is normal to experience some mood change after an abortion as your hormones change.  This can include low mood, irritability or poor sleep.  It usually lasts 3-4 days and then resolves.

Research shows abortion does not increase long-term‑ risk of depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

Support is available if you need it.

Fertility and future pregnancy

Abortion does not affect your ability to have children in the future.

• You can become pregnant again quickly
• Start contraception as advised
• It does not increase your risk of future miscarriage risk or fertility problems

Follow-up care

You will be given a follow-up appointment or test to confirm the abortion is complete.  This is to confirm your abortion was successful and there is no ongoing pregnancy.

Please attend this, even if you feel well.

When to seek urgent medical help

Contact your provider or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

• Fever over 38°C
• Soaking 2 or more pads per hour for 2 hours
• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Foul smelling vaginal discharge
• Feeling very unwell or dizzy