Recovery After Abortion - Recovery Tips, Diet, Lifestyle Changes

Timeline of Recovery - Surgical Abortion

The recovery timeline after surgical abortion varies based on the woman’s overall health, age, and any potential complications during the procedure. However, the following is a general timeline of recovery:

After the procedure: As soon as the procedure is finished, you will be transferred to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor you until you are awake and stable enough to be released. It usually takes an hour or two.

First 24 hours: In the first 24 hours, you may experience cramping and heavy period-like bleeding. Rest is extremely important during this period, and avoiding strenuous activities is advised. In order to prevent infection, you may also be given antibiotics or painkillers. 

First week: The spotting or light bleeding may continue for up to a week or two. Tampons, sexual activity, and hot tubs or pools must be avoided during this time to lower the chances of infection.

Two weeks: After two weeks, most women can resume their regular routines, including work and exercise. To avoid overexertion, it’s crucial to pay attention to your body.

Lifestyle Modifications After Surgical Abortion

After a surgical abortion, it is extremely important to adopt some lifestyle modifications to promote the healing process and minimize the chances of risks and complications. Listed below are some lifestyle modifications to follow for quicker recovery:

• Eat a well-balanced diet: Green leafy vegetables, dry fruits, ginger, garlic, sesame seeds, and milk should all be included in the diet. Avoid junk food, processed foods, sugary beverages, and colas. These things can have a negative impact on your health. After discussing them with your doctor, only take supplements such as vitamin D, iron, and calcium.
• Say no to heavy workouts: It is best to avoid weight lifting following an abortion, including washing clothes and kitchenware and lifting water buckets. Take it easy and get plenty of rest. To stay healthy, you must sleep at least eight hours every night.
• Have warm water: After an abortion, you are more likely to feel dehydrated. So, drink warm water to avoid constipation and stay hydrated.
• Get a body massage: A relaxing body massage is a good idea to cope with all stress, anxiety, and mood swings post-abortion. Massage can be relaxing and can help calm down your nerves. Mustard or sesame oil can help reduce pain or cramps post-abortion. Massage your feet and palms to relieve discomfort and generate heat in your body. 
• Hot compression can do the trick: Post-abortion, you might have cramps. Hence, hot bags can reduce the pain, and you will feel better.
• De-stress: Abortion is a traumatic phase for any woman. Most women experience depression, anxiety, irritability, guilt, anger, sadness, and stress. You can try to relax by scheduling some me time. Gardening, cooking, listening to music, and photographing can help you cope with trauma. You must express your feelings to your partner, friends, and family. If necessary, seek counseling.
• Avoid conceiving immediate abortion: You can plan your pregnancy after a few months post-abortion. Consult your healthcare provider before planning to conceive.
• Don’t skip your medical check-ups: After an abortion, if you experience any abnormal changes in the body, such as blood loss, dizziness, feeling nauseated, or vomiting, then consult your healthcare provider immediately. Follow the instructions given by the doctor to promote the healing after abortion.