Possible physical side effects after an abortion

Physical side effects after an abortion can vary from woman to woman, and there are potential side effects and risks that you should be aware of.

It is important to talk to your health care provider, as well as the doctor who will be performing the abortion, about possible side effects.

Your period should resume about 4 to 6 weeks after the abortion, and you should be able to get pregnant again shortly after the abortion.

If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics, it's important to take them as directed to prevent infection.

Expected physical side effects after an abortion

Here is a list of common side effects that occur after an abortion. These side effects may be observed for 2-4 weeks after the procedure.

Abdominal pain and cramping
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Spotting and bleeding
Potential and more serious complications following an abortion

Although serious complications occur in less than 1 in 100 first-trimester abortions and about 1 in 50 late-term abortions, it is important to be aware of the following risks:

Heavy or persistent bleeding
Infection or sepsis
Damage to the cervix
Scarring of the uterine lining
Perforation of the uterus
Damage to other organs
Death

It is important to understand that these risks are rare and that some of these risks are related to childbearing. It is important that you are aware of these risks in order to make an informed decision about your pregnancy

Serious physical side effects of abortion

If you have had an abortion, call your doctor and seek medical attention if your side effects become severe or if you experience any of the following: