If you’re about to have an abortion then you’re probably wondering how long it will take you to recover. It’s important to know what to expect so that you can make the right choices about your treatment. You will also need to arrange some time off so that you can rest for at least a couple of days after the termination. How long will you need and what should you expect during this time? Physical RecoveryThe physical effects of an abortion are usually quite mild and you should recover quickly. However, the effects can depend on which type of abortion you have and how late in the pregnancy you had the procedure. It could also take longer to recover if you experience any complications. In most cases, you should feel back to normal within a couple of weeks. However, you won’t need to take all this time off work as you’ll feel much better within just a few days. You can go home right away after taking the abortion pill and you should be able to leave the hospital within a few hours of a surgical termination. However, you should expect to experience some physical symptoms over the next couple of weeks:
The effects will be strongest in the first couple of days, so it is a good idea to take some time off to rest at home:
If you notice anything unusual then you should get in touch with your doctor. The doctor will explain what to watch out for before you have the procedure. Possible signs of trouble can include a fever, severe pain, and heavy bleeding. Any complications can usually be treated very effectively as long as you seek help quickly. Emotional EffectsIt can be harder to predict the emotional effects of an abortion because every woman is unique. How you feel after the abortion and how long these feelings last can depend on your situation and personality. You might experience some or all of the following emotions:
The feelings might come and go quickly or last for a long time. Sometimes they can come back in the future, especially if you are going through a similar experience like pregnancy or losing a family member. In some cases, having an abortion can even trigger depression or other mental health disorders, but this is rare. It is important to get the help you need to manage the emotional impact, especially if you are having trouble coping or think you might have a mental health condition. You might want to talk to friends and family, ask your doctor for help, or see a counsellor. Allow yourself to work through whatever feelings you are experiencing, in your own time. Sex after an AbortionAnother important part of getting back to normal after an abortion is your sex life. Both the mental and physical effects of an abortion can affect your libido and the way you feel during sex. You might not feel ready to have sex for a while after the procedure. You could be bleeding and feeling uncomfortable for a couple of weeks, which is unlikely to make you feel very sexy or aroused. Even after the physical effects have disappeared, you might not be emotionally ready to have sex again. It is important to wait as long as you need and to be aware that you might feel a little bit different when you are ready to have sex again.
Where to Get HelpIf you have any questions or concerns about your physical, emotional or sexual wellbeing then there are plenty of places where you can get support:
Do you have any other resources to share with women or couples who are going through this experience? |