After Your Abortion
What to do next
Important information for you to follow after your abortion
Aftercare
- DO NOT DRIVE IMMEDIATELY – Please wait at least 4 hours to drive if you received light sedation; 24 hours if you have received intravenous anxiety or pain-relief, moderate or deep sedation.
- CRAMPING – Moderate to heavy cramping is normal. There are some things that you can do to relieve the cramps, such as resting, knee-chest position, heat or ice to the lower abdomen, heat to the lower back, and pain relievers. If the pain is persistent or increases, call us.
- BLEEDING – May be similar to a heavy period. It may be bright red or dark in color. You may have intermittent bleeding/spotting for up to 8 weeks. You may have no bleeding and this is also normal. If you are soaking two pads an hour for two hours, call us.
- CLOTTING – Passing clots of is normal. If you repeatedly pass clots larger than a lemon-size, call us.
- PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS – Symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea, bloating/water-retention, breast engorgement/tenderness, should be gone in 2-3 weeks. If symptoms of pregnancy persist, call us.
- BREAST ENGORGEMENT – If your breasts become painful, swollen, tender, and/or you notice secretions, bind them tightly with a snug bra, towel, or an ACE wrap. Ice may be applied (10 minutes on, 20 minutes off). Avoid all stimulation of your breasts, including hot water from a shower. Ibuprofen 600 mg may be taken every 6 hours.
- NEXT MENSTRUAL PERIOD – Your first menstrual period usually starts in 4-6 weeks, but may come as early as 2 weeks or take as long as 8 weeks. It may be heavier and last longer with more cramping than usual.
- EMOTIONS – You may experience a wide range of feelings after your procedure–relief, sadness, joy, regret–and all are normal. Most of these subside with time. Please call us if you have persistent distressful or uncomfortable feelings. We have resources available to assist you.
- FOR ONE WEEK AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE – Avoid vigorous exercise. Do not take products containing asprin as they may increase bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
I haven’t bled at all, is that ok?
Yes, bleeding can vary from none to heavy for up to 8 weeks.
Is my bleeding too much?
Some bleeding is normal , however if you are completely saturating 2 thick maxi-pads/hour for at least 2 hours, please call us.
When can I have sex?
We recommend no vaginal intercourse for at least 1 week to help prevent infection.
When do I start my birth control pills?
You may start immediately if you are not planning to become pregnant again soon.
Do I need to come back for a check-up?
No. Most people have no problems or complications and do not need to return. If you have any questions, please call us.
Why am I having a positive pregnancy test?
It can take up to 8 weeks for pregnancy hormones in your body to drop to normal levels.
When will the morning sickness stop?
Usually that symptom takes 1-2 days to subside.
For Emergencies, Call 911
If you need to reach us with questions:
You may call the clinic during regular business hours at:
Lilith Seattle: (206) 985-9553
Lilith Portland: (503) 221-1870
Lilith Las Vegas: (702) 892-0660
Current patients may also reach our staff after hours using the on-call number that was given to you at your appointment.