Abortion Follow Up Care

Most clinics will schedule a follow-up appointment with you after your abortion or encourage you to see your primary doctor after your abortion. It is important that you keep your follow-up appointment so that you can help prevent possible infections. Your doctor should give you instructions on how to care for yourself after your abortion. Be sure that you follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and completely. Your period should return about 4-6 weeks after the abortion and remember that you can get pregnant again soon after the abortion. Call the helpline at 1-866-942-6466 with questions about abortion.

Be sure to follow these guidelines as well as any additional guidelines given to you by your doctor:

• If you have been prescribed antibiotics, take them completely as directed until you have finished them.
• Do not insert anything into your vagina such as a tampon or douche for at least 2-6 weeks.
• Do not have intercourse for at least 2-6 weeks.
• Showers and swimming are O.K., but do not take a bath for 2-6 weeks.

These are the common side-effects of abortion:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Spotting and Bleeding

Call your doctor and seek medical attention immediately if your side effects become severe or if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal and back pain that interferes with your ability to stand up
• Bleeding that is heavier than a normal menstrual period
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Fever above 100.4 F

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Source:
“Induced Abortion,” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2001.

Last updated: 02/2008