What can you expect after an abortion?
It’s good to know what’s normal after an abortion, so you know what to expect and what to look out for.
Everyone will have a different experience after either a medical or surgical abortion has been completed. Usually you will experience some bleeding (ranging from spotting to heavy clots). This can continue up to your next period and may be unpredictable, irregular, or prolonged. It's important you use sanitary towels and not tampons or menstrual cups as this will help to prevent infection. It’s also normal to have crampy pains (cramps).
Pregnancy symptoms will start to settle after a couple of days. Nausea and vomiting are one of the first symptoms to disappear after treatment. It is common to have tender breasts for several weeks.
Different feelings may come up for people after an abortion, including relief and sadness. These are all normal things to feel. We’re here to talk at any time and can arrange post-abortion counselling, either face-to-face or over the phone. If you have any concerns call our aftercare line to speak to a nurse.