What Happens to the Body After an Abortion
An abortion is a medical procedure that terminates a pregnancy.
If you have just had an abortion or you are considering one, you might be wondering what to expect and how to handle those expectations.
If you have not had your abortion yet, here are some of the things to note before undergoing the procedure. First, you need to consult medical personnel to assess your pregnancy, including the best abortion procedures and corresponding potential side effects.
You will physically be assessed to confirm the pregnancy and determine its stage.
If needed, you may be offered counseling to understand the pros and cons of undergoing this procedure and if you are sure you still want to proceed. Then, you will sign a consent form to proceed with the abortion.
Types of Abortion
Medical abortion
Medical abortion is the simplest way to terminate pregnancy through medication. It involves bleeding from the vagina like you would with a heavy period.
It is recommended for pregnancy within its early stages, typically the first ten weeks. You can have this abortion at home within the stipulated time frame. However, a later time frame would require you to have the procedure under the supervision of a healthcare officer in case of any complications.
Surgical abortion
Surgical abortion involves undergoing a surgical procedure to terminate a pregnancy. There are two major types of surgical abortions.
Vacuum Aspiration (Suction Abortion): This is the most common type, typically used in the first trimester.
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): This procedure is used in the second trimester
To carry out the procedure, you may be given a local anesthetic, a general one, or conscious sedation.
Ultimately, the procedure depends on the stage of pregnancy, your medical history, and personal preferences. It is important to note that surgical abortions are typically performed up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. In rare cases, due to a medical emergency or severe risk to the woman’s health, it may be performed after 24 weeks.
Effects of Abortion on the Body
Everyone’s body is different, and experiences following an abortion can vary. Here’s a general overview of some common effects:
Bleeding and Cramping
In the case of a medical abortion, you are sure to experience bleeding as the body expels the pregnancy. Bleeding may be accompanied by cramping as the body sheds blood. It is similar to a heavy period and may last a few days (9 days average) or 2-6 weeks.
Surgical abortions may also cause bleeding and cramping in procedures carried out through the vagina. However, most surgical abortions do not cause bleeding, and even when they do, it is minimal. Additionally, cramps may manifest when the uterus is trying to go back to its standard size.
You may pass some small blood clots during bleeding, which is usually nothing to worry about. In the case of heavy abnormal bleeding, blowing through a pad per hour, having large clots, or extreme pain, consult your doctor.
Take painkillers for the pain, but avoid medication that contains aspirin as it may exacerbate the bleeding.
You may experience more pain if you are: in a later stage of pregnancy, usually have painful periods, or have never had a vaginal birth.
Nausea and fatigue
This is a result of the hormonal imbalance your body may be experiencing. These gastrointestinal symptoms are typically associated with a surgical procedure. Symptoms usually do not last long, so consult your doctor if they last more than a few days.
Vaginal discharge
A vaginal discharge is not abnormal. However, it may cause concern if it is foul-smelling, itchy, painful, and puslike.
Other symptoms
Chills, chest pain, breast sensitivity, fever, fainting.
Tips for Managing the After-Effects of an Abortion
- Use pads for bleeding and avoid tampons to prevent infection.
- Avoid sex for a few days or weeks until you feel better and ready
- Actively try to avoid pregnancy if you are not prepared, as you can get pregnant after an abortion.
- Use fragrance-free products around your vagina
- Get counselling
- Eat and rest well
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Take warm liquids and use a heat pad to alleviate the cramps
