How to Take Care of Your Body After an Abortion
Physical Care
After an abortion, it is important to take care of your body physically. This means:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Eating healthy foods
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Taking pain medication as prescribed
- Using a heating pad to relieve cramps
Emotional Care
Abortion can be an emotionally difficult experience. It is important to allow yourself time to grieve and heal. This means:
- Talking to someone you trust about your feelings
- Joining a support group
- Seeking professional counseling if needed
- Doing things that make you feel good
- Avoiding alcohol and drugs
Medical Care
It is important to follow up with your doctor after an abortion to ensure that you are healing properly. This means:
- Going to your follow-up appointment as scheduled
- Reporting any unusual symptoms to your doctor
- Using birth control to prevent pregnancy in the future if you do not want to get pregnant
Recovery Timeline
The recovery time after an abortion varies from person to person. However, most people can expect to experience the following:
- Vaginal bleeding for 1-2 weeks
- Cramps for several days
- Fatigue for several days
- Emotional ups and downs for several weeks
It is important to listen to your body and take care of yourself during this time. If you have any concerns, please contact your doctor.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (more than 2 pads per hour for more than 2 hours)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Vaginal discharge that is foul-smelling or contains pus
These symptoms could be a sign of a complication that requires medical attention.
Conclusion
Abortion is a safe and legal medical procedure. However, it is important to take care of your body both physically and emotionally after an abortion. By following the tips in this guide, you can help ensure a healthy recovery.
