Self-Care After an Abortion: Physical Recovery, Emotional Wellbeing & What to Expect

Taking Care of Yourself After an Abortion

Recovery after an abortion is typically quick and straightforward — most patients feel well within a day or two. But knowing what to expect, what to do, and what to watch for makes a real difference in how smoothly your recovery goes. This guide covers both the physical and emotional side of post-abortion care.

If you have questions specific to your procedure, call us at 718-585-1010. We are here for you after your appointment, not just during it.

What to Expect Physically

Bleeding and spotting are normal after both surgical and medication abortion. Light to moderate bleeding or spotting can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks. You may also pass small clots, especially in the first day or two. This is your body clearing the uterine lining and is completely expected.

Cramping is also normal, particularly in the first 24 to 48 hours. Think of it as similar to period cramps — your uterus is contracting back to its normal size. Cramping typically subsides within a few days.

Breast tenderness or swelling may occur as pregnancy hormones leave your body. This usually resolves within one to two weeks.

Your period will typically return within four to six weeks after your abortion. Your first period may be heavier or lighter than usual, or arrive a little earlier or later than expected. This is normal as your cycle resets.

Pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue usually resolve within one to two weeks as hormone levels return to normal. A home pregnancy test can remain positive for four to six weeks after an abortion due to lingering HCG hormone — this does not mean the abortion was incomplete.

How to Care for Yourself Physically

Rest as much as you need. Most patients are able to return to light activity within a day or two, but listen to your body. If you feel tired, rest. If your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity, take a few days off if possible.

Manage pain with over-the-counter medication. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is the most effective option for post-abortion cramping because it reduces inflammation as well as pain. Take it with food. A heating pad on your lower abdomen or lower back can also provide significant relief.

Avoid tampons, penetrative sex, and anything inserted into the vagina for at least two weeks. This reduces the risk of infection while your cervix is still in the process of closing. Use pads instead of tampons during this time.

Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths for two weeks. Showers are fine. Submerging in water increases the risk of infection during recovery.

Attend your follow-up appointment. If you had a medication abortion at our clinic, your follow-up ultrasound is an important step to confirm the abortion is complete. Do not skip it even if you feel fine.

Contraception. You can become pregnant very quickly after an abortion — sometimes within two weeks — because ovulation can occur before your first period returns. If you want to avoid pregnancy, start contraception right away. We can discuss your options at your appointment or follow-up visit.

Emotional Self-Care

Recovery is not just physical. Your hormones are shifting, and your emotions may shift too. Give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up — relief, sadness, mixed feelings, or nothing in particular. All of these are normal responses.

Connect with people who support you. Whether that is a partner, a friend, a family member, or an online community, having people around you who are non-judgmental and caring makes a meaningful difference.

Be gentle with yourself. Avoid over-scheduling yourself in the days immediately after your procedure. Build in time to rest, eat well, and do things that bring you comfort.

Seek professional support if needed. If you find yourself experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, or trouble functioning in daily life, please reach out to a mental health professional. These feelings deserve attention and support, and talking with a counselor can help. Call us at 718-585-1010 if you would like a referral.

For more on the emotional side of abortion recovery, see our post: How Am I Supposed to Feel After an Abortion?

When to Call Your Doctor

Call 718-585-1010 right away if you experience any of the following:

• Heavy bleeding — soaking more than two maxi pads per hour for two consecutive hours
• Fever of 100.4°F or higher lasting more than two hours
• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain not relieved by ibuprofen
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• No bleeding at all after a medication abortion
• Pregnancy symptoms that persist or worsen after two weeks

For a complete guide to warning signs, see our post: Warning Signs After an Abortion: When to Call Your Doctor

We Are Here for Your Full Recovery

At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center, your care does not end when you leave our clinic. Our board-certified OB/GYN physicians and staff are available to answer questions, address concerns, and see you for follow-up care. We accept Medicaid from all five NYC boroughs and most major insurance plans.

Call 718-585-1010 or book online at www.dremily.net. We are located at 642 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY — one block from the 6 train.