After Your Procedure

What to expect!

A few things to consider for the week or two after your abortion:

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for three days following the procedure.
• Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, tub bathing, swimming or anything inserted into the vagina for two weeks afer your procedure. This is to prevent infection.
• Bleeding after an abortion is normal. You could experience this up to two weeks or some people experience none at all. You should contact the clinic if your bleeding is heavier than what is described in your discharge instructions.
• Cramping is normal and over-the-counter medications (Ibuprofen) should be helpful in relieving your cramps. Refer to your discharge instructions for further information.
• Pregnancy symptoms usually disappear within 3 days. However, your breast symptoms could last longer.
• Your pregnancy test will stay positive for a week or two if it is not one of the more sensitive tests. Contact the clinic if you have questions.
• In the unlikely event you have a need for additional care after your abortion, please return to CCFW. There will be no additional charge for this visit. Should you choose to go to a different facility CCFW will not cover the cost you may incur at the hospital or other facility.
• Never hesitate to call us with any questions or concerns.

Aftercare

Most women are able to return to work or school the day following your procedure. You should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for three days following your surgery.

Our staff is available for problems or concerns anytime following your abortion. We encourage you to call during daytime hours (your chart will be available for reference) if you are having problems or have any questions.

Feeling emotional following an abortion is common. Some patients feel relieved while others feel sad. We recommend you talk with your partner or a good friend or family member about your feelings. Should your feelings seem overwhelming, you may need support from our counselors or staff. We can also make referrals for counseling or other support as needed. There is an organization called Exhale which is a free after-abortion hotline. Click here to go there: www.4exhale.org