What Factors Affect Abortion Recovery?

Abortion recovery is a different process for each woman who has undergone the procedure. There are both physical and emotional factors to consider. How fast a woman heals physically depends primarily on what type of abortion she had and whether she follows medical advice to avoid intercourse, rest, refrain from exercise, and ensure proper nutrition. Emotional healing after abortion is less clear cut and depends on the individual woman. Factors may include the support system in place and whether she seeks counseling.

In the U.S., for example, two types of abortions are available — chemical, also known as the abortion pill, and clinical. Chemical abortions are not invasive and therefore the physical recovery process is usually shorter. Recovery after clinical abortions likely will take longer because the woman has undergone a surgical procedure. With either option, abortion recovery time may also depend on the age of the fetus because a more advanced pregnancy can cause heavier bleeding.

Abortion recovery further depends on how closely the woman follows her doctor’s advice. Post-abortion care calls for waiting one to two weeks before intercourse and douching or using tampons in most cases. Some doctors may suggest waiting at least two weeks to exercise, take a bath, or swim. Other common instructions include not lifting more than 15 lbs. (6.8 kg) for two weeks. Women may have delayed physical recovery after an abortion if they persist in these activities before the recommended waiting period expires.

Improvement factors may come down how a woman cares for herself post-abortion. Doctors recommended drinking plenty of fluids, eating sensibly, and taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain management. Women who do these things may physically recuperate sooner.

The timeline for an emotional comeback is much less established because the factors that heavily influence it depend on the individual and the circumstances. Emotional abortion recovery time could improve if a woman has a solid support system in place to talk about her feelings. Relief, happiness, sadness, and guilt are just some of the many emotions patients report after a procedure. Airing these to a supportive partner, friend, sibling, or other confidant can reassure the woman that her feelings are normal.

Abortion counseling is an additional factor in the recovery process. Some women may feel relieved that they made a fully informed decision after undergoing precounseling. Those who seek counseling after the procedure may appreciate a safe venue to share their feelings. Counseling is not guaranteed to make emotional recovery easier, but it could shorten the time it takes for a woman to return to normal.