After an abortion (chemical OR surgical), you may experience cramping, bleeding, pelvic/abdominal pain or other symptoms. You need to allow your body time to recover.  Your doctor/abortion provider should give you specific recovery instructions. It is important to follow those instructions and to reach out to them if something feels "off".

​

Post Abortive Complications: Warning Signs

Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms after an abortion:

• Heavy bleeding or passing large clots (larger than golf ball size).

• Bleeding that lasts more than 14 days.

• Fever over 100 degrees.

• Abdominal pain that is worse than a normal period.

• Signs of infection such as achiness and general feeling of illness.

• Vomiting that lasts more than 4 hours.

• Sudden abdominal swelling or rapid heart rate.

• Vaginal discharge that has increased in amount or smells bad.

• Pain, redness or swelling in the genital area.

​

Physical Effects

Most women experience some of the following after an abortion:

• Bleeding – on average bleeding lasts 14 days, but can last as long as 21 days. 1

• Cramping

• Dizziness

• Drowsiness

• Nausea/Vomiting

These symptoms typically resolve within a week, sometimes longer. If symptoms persist or become severe, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.

​

Emotional Effects

Research suggests that women who have had abortions may be at increased risk for mental health problems.  Some women who have experienced an abortion report symptoms similar to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Symptoms may include:

• Regret

• Grief

• Sadness/Depression

• Anxiety

• Guilt/Shame

• Suicidal thoughts

Contact us for a referral to a licensed counselor if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. It is important for your health that you not ignore any negative feelings you may have. The National Hotline for Abortion Recovery is also available to assist you via phone: 866-482-5433 or online: www.nationalhelpline.org.

​

Support After an Abortion

Sometimes, even though you thought abortion was the best decision, you have feelings of remorse, regret, or depression.   If abortion has left you feeling broken or wounded, we want to help you discover peace and healing.  We offer a support group and study, called SaveOne, taught by trained facilitators.  This small group study offers a safe place to freely discuss your abortion in a non-judgmental atmosphere. Our client advocates are ready to help you find your path to healing.  Call or text us today to find out when the next study is starting. 

​

Interested in participating in SaveOne, but not local to our center? We're happy to help you find a study close to you or you can contact SaveOne directly at (615) 636-2654 or visit saveone.org.

​

​

​