Your journey – aftercare
Aftercare
Caring for yourself, both physically and emotionally after your abortion is important. Take time, be kind to yourself, indulge in self-care, and listen to your body.
Pregnancy test
You need to complete a follow up test to check the abortion is successful. There are two options which the nurse will discuss during your consultation.
Option 1: We will provide you with a pregnancy test, designed specially for after an abortion. Take this test 21 days after the first pill (Mifepristone). We will send you a reminder the day before it is due. If the test is negative, it means the abortion was successful. If the test is positive, our nurse will guide you through the next steps. A positive test does not always indicate you are still pregnant.
Option 2: We will order a blood test (or send you a lab form) to complete at your nearest lab. When we have the results we will contact you to discuss the results.
We advise against using a store-brought pregnancy test for the follow-up. If you have any concerns after your completing your follow up test, please call us to discuss.
Signs of infection
Infection can happen after an abortion. You may experience all or a combination of the below symptoms. If you feel you may have an infection, let us know. We can provide support to treat the infection.
Fever
Smelly discharge
Tummy/pelvic cramps
Generally feeling unwell
Pregnancy symptoms
Pregnancy symptoms should disappear within a few days of having an early medical abortion. If your symptoms don’t disappear and/or you continue to feel pregnant it is important that you call us. Our nurse will guide you on what to do next.
Your period, sex, and contraception
Your period
Your period will usually return within 4-8 weeks. Your first period after an abortion is likely to be different from normal. Your period may be delayed, heavier or lighter, and maybe clotty (blood clots). You can use tampons, pads, period undies, or a moon-cup – whichever you are most comfortable with.
Having sex
You can have sex as soon as you feel ready. We encourage you to consider contraception. Our nurse can help you find the best method of contraception for you.
Contraception
Your fertility returns to normal straight after having an abortion. You can get pregnant soon after, or even before your next period.
Our nurse will discuss contraception options with you. If you live near one of our clinics we can arrange an appointment for long-acting contraception (LARC) or if you live elsewhere we can arrange an oral contraceptive pill.
Using contraception decreases your chances of falling pregnant again.
Learn more
Ready to take the next step in your journey?
Reach out online or call 0800 226 784 to speak with our patient care team. We are here to support you every step of the way. This is your journey.
Request appointment
