• Drink water and healthy fluids. 
• Eat healthy food.Get plenty of rest. 
• Avoid strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects for at least one week. 
• Take any antibiotics you were given for the full number of days prescribed.
• Avoid vaginal insertions for at least two weeks, including sex and tampons. 

Call your doctor if you are concerned about any symptoms you are having.

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.

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.

Research suggests that women who have had abortions may be at increased risk for mental health problems.2 Some women who have experienced an abortion report symptoms similar to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.3 Some of those symptoms may include:

• Regret
• Grief
• Sadness/Depression
• Anxiety
• Guilt/Shame
• Suicidal thoughts

These symptoms typically resolve within a week, sometimes longer. 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.