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Blog: When will I get my period after an abortion?

Abortion  •  13 April 2023  • 3 min read

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Your first period will usually return between four to eight weeks following a successful abortion. It is not uncommon for your first few periods to be heavier and last longer than usual.

In this blog, you will find information about:

  • Your period after an abortion
  • Sex after an abortion
  • Contraception options after an abortion

Recovery time after an abortion will be different for everyone, but you’ll usually feel better within a few days. If you had an abortion with MSI UK, you will find all the information you need on our aftercare page.

You can always get back in touch with your abortion provider, should you have any questions during or after your treatment. They are always there to support you. If you have had treatment with MSI UK and have any abortion aftercare questions, you can call our 24-hour dedicated aftercare line on 03451221441.

Your period after an abortion

Following an abortion, your fertility will return almost immediately, even if you are still bleeding. Your first period will usually return between four to eight weeks following a successful abortion. It is also normal to pass more clots than usual. Please know that a period may take longer than 8 weeks to come back, and it could take between 3 to 6 months for your cycle to return.

You can still get pregnant again even if your period hasn’t started yet. Some hormonal contraception can stop or change your periods, therefore if you started contraception around the time of your abortion, this may explain why your period has not returned.

Sex after an abortion and contraception counselling

It is safe to have sex when you feel ready, but remember, following an abortion, it is possible to get pregnant almost immediately. If you do not want to get pregnant after having an abortion it is important to have a contraceptive method in place as soon as possible.

Contraception counselling is a part of your NHS-funded abortion care with MSI Reproductive Choices, should you wish to start a method of contraception following an abortion. If you are looking for a contraceptive method that suits your individual needs, you can book an appointment within six months of your abortion treatment.  

At MSI UK, we believe that information about contraception should be readily available. If you need help finding the best contraceptive method for you, you can also try our digital contraception counsellor “Choice”. Using “Choice”, you can receive personalised contraceptive advice by answering a few short questions about your lifestyle, preferences, needs and medical history.

Please remember that condoms are the only contraceptive method that will help protect you against STIs.

Get in touch

At MSI Reproductive Choices, we are here for you and there are a number of ways you can contact us.    

You can always get in touch should you have any questions about our services, would like to book an appointment or you have had treatment with us and want aftercare support.  


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