Not sure what to expect during abortion recovery care in New York? If you’re making the decision to have an abortion, you may be concerned about what happens after the process. Here’s your comprehensive guide for what to expect after a medical or surgical abortion.
How Much Rest Do You Need After an Abortion?
After undergoing an abortion procedure, it’s essential to prioritize rest so your body can heal. The amount of rest needed varies for each individual depending on the type of abortion procedure, your health, and other factors. Generally, healthcare providers recommend taking it easy for at least 24 to 48 hours following the procedure. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and intense exercise.
Resting at home can help minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and promote healing. Listen to your body, and permit yourself to rest as needed. Additionally, staying hydrated, eating nutritious foods, and getting plenty of sleep can support the healing process and aid in recovery.
Prevent Infections With These Tips
Preventing infections is a crucial aspect of post-abortion care. While abortion procedures including the abortion pill and surgical procedures are generally safe, there is a risk of infection. This is especially true if proper hygiene practices are not followed. To reduce this risk, keep the genital area clean and dry. Wash your hands frequently before using mild soap and water to clean the area. Avoid using scented products, as well as douching.
Additionally, it is important to avoid swimming, hot tubs, and baths for at least a week following the procedure. Using pads instead of tampons can also help avoid introducing bacteria into the vaginal canal that can cause infection.
Prompt treatment with antibiotics can effectively treat most infections when detected early.
What’s Normal When It Comes to Side Effects During Abortion Recovery Care in New York?
During the recovery period after an abortion, it’s common to experience some side effects as the body heals. These can include cramping, bleeding, and spotting, similar to a heavy menstrual period.
Cramping is typically mild to moderate in intensity and can be alleviated effectively with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Bleeding and spotting may persist for several days to a week following the procedure. Use pads instead of tampons during this time to reduce the risk of infection.
Some individuals experience emotional side effects such as sadness, anxiety, or relief, which are also considered normal reactions to the experience when terminating a pregnancy.
Monitor your symptoms closely and contact your provider for any concerning symptoms. They can let you know how to manage side effects and determine if further evaluation or treatment is necessary.
What’s Not Normal in Terms of Adverse Effects During Abortion Recovery?
While some discomfort and side effects are normal during the recovery period after an abortion, certain symptoms may indicate potential complications that require medical attention. It’s absolutely necessary to be aware of the warning signs of serious side effects and to seek medical care right away if you experience any of the following:
- Severe and / or persistent pelvic pain that is not reduced after taking over-the-counter pain medication
- Heavy bleeding, during which you fill more than two pads per hour for at least two consecutive hours
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, which may indicate an infection
- Foul-smelling discharge, redness, swelling, or warmth in the genital area, which are all signs of infection
- Shortness of breath or chest pain, as well as any other signs of a severe allergic reaction
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical care immediately. Prompt care can help ensure your safety and well-being.
When Should You Schedule Your Follow-Up Visit?
Following your medical or surgical abortion, schedule a follow-up visit with your provider. This not only ensures that your recovery is progressing smoothly and that you can address any concerns or questions you may have, but it is also essential to make sure the termination was successful and that you are no longer pregnant.
Your healthcare provider will typically recommend scheduling a follow-up visit within one to two weeks after the procedure, although this timeline varies depending on individual circumstances.
During the follow-up visit, your healthcare provider will check for any signs of pregnancy and provide guidance on contraception and reproductive health. Birth control is an essential aspect of post-abortion care to prevent unintended pregnancies and ensure reproductive health and autonomy.
Your healthcare provider will review available birth control options and help you choose a method that best fits your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Birth control options may include contraceptive pills, patches, or injections, diaphragms, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).
They will perform a physical examination to ensure the uterus has returned to normal size and that there are no signs of infection or other issues.
During this appointment for abortion recovery care in New York, you can discuss any emotional or psychological concerns you may have related to the abortion experience. Your medical professional can offer resources to help you cope with any emotions that may arise.
Where Can You Turn for a Safe Medical or Surgical Abortion Near NYC?
Choose Metropolitan Medical Associates in Englewood, New Jersey, a trusted provider of compassionate and comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including abortion care. With decades of combined experience, our women’s healthcare team provides high-quality care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.
Patients choose Metropolitan Medical Associates for their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to patient-centered care. The clinic offers a wide range of abortion services, including medication abortion (abortion pill) and surgical abortion procedures, tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
Call us today at 800-932-0378 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment. In addition to abortion care, we offer a variety of reproductive health services, including contraception counseling, STI testing and treatment, and annual exams.
