Understanding Your Period After an Abortion: What to Expect
If you’re planning to have an abortion or have just had one, you likely have questions about what comes next. One of the most common concerns is when your period will return and what it will be like. Here’s what you need to know.
When Will My Period Return?
Your period may take 4 to 8 weeks to return after an abortion. This is because the procedure restarts your menstrual cycle, which can shift the timing of your period. You may experience bleeding immediately after the procedure, but this is not your period. Instead, it’s a natural response to the abortion.
What Will My First Period Be Like?
Your first period after an abortion may be heavier or lighter than usual, depending on the type of abortion you had. If you had a medical abortion, you may experience a heavier period with small blood clots. If you had a surgical abortion, your period may be lighter and shorter. You may also experience stronger PMS symptoms, including bloating, cramping, fatigue, mood changes, and headaches.
What If I Don’t Get My Period?
If it’s been 8 weeks since your abortion and your period hasn’t returned, it’s possible you could be pregnant. Take a pregnancy test or reach out to your doctor to rule out any underlying issues.
Post-Abortion Bleeding vs. Your Period
It’s essential to understand the difference between post-abortion bleeding and your period. Post-abortion bleeding is a natural response to the procedure and can last 1 to 2 weeks. Your period, on the other hand, will return 4 to 8 weeks after the procedure.
Recovery After an Abortion
Both medical and surgical abortions are considered very safe and don’t cause a lot of pain. You may experience some side effects, including bleeding, cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. You can take over-the-counter pain meds to ease any discomfort and use hot water bottles, heating pads, and warm showers to relax.
Emotional Recovery
It’s typical to feel a range of emotions after an abortion, including relief, sadness, or grief. Be kind to yourself as you process these emotions, and reach out to others if you need support. Abortions aren’t linked to an increased risk of developing mental health issues, but it’s essential to get help if you’re experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety.
When Can I Have Sex Again?
Most healthcare professionals recommend waiting about 2 weeks (or until you stop bleeding) before having sex after an abortion. This helps reduce the risk of infection. Remember, there’s no rush – you and your partner can have sex when you both feel ready.
Birth Control After an Abortion
You can resume birth control immediately after your abortion. In fact, it’s recommended, as you can get pregnant within less than 2 weeks after your abortion. Research suggests that 83 percent of people ovulate during their first cycle after an abortion.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following physical symptoms:
- Soaking through two or more pads per hour for 2 hours
- Passing a blood clot bigger than a lemon
- Severe stomach or back pain
- Spiking a fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Bleeding or discharge that smells foul
- Yellow or green discharge
You should also call your doctor if you don’t bleed at all within 48 hours of taking an abortion pill or if your period hasn’t returned to normal within 3 months.
Free or Low-Cost Resources
If you’re looking for low-cost (or free) support, consider reaching out to organizations like All-Options, Project Voice, Exhale, or Planned Parenthood. These groups offer counseling services, emotional support, and resources to help you navigate your recovery.
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