Q.Do I need to bring someone with me? Can I Drive Myself after the Termination Procedure?
You may bring a support person with you. They may wait for you in the waiting room but may not be permitted to all aspects of the visit with you. You may drive yourself to and from your appointment, however, if you receive IV sedation, it is not safe to drive yourself after your procedure which. It is recommended that you have a trusted ride designated after your procedure or arranging a Taxi or ride-share is an option.
Q.What can I use for pain control after the Termination Procedure or Medication Abortion?
You may take Ibuprofen (Advil) 800 mg tablet every 8 hours as needed OR Naproxen (Aleve) 500 mg every 12 hours as needed for cramping after your procedure. You may also take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) up to 1000 mg tablets every 6 hours as needed.
Q.Is Having An Abortion Safe?
Termination of pregnancy (surgical or medical) is safe, and very few women experience complications. Ending a pregnancy early (via procedure or medication) poses fewer risks to a woman than going through pregnancy and childbirth.
Q.Will Having an Abortion Affect My Ability To Get Pregnant In The Future?
Uncomplicated termination of pregnancy (Abortion procedure or Medication Abortion) poses virtually no risk to a woman’s future reproductive health, as shown by numerous studies. It is extremely rare for a serious complication that can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy or fertility problems, to occur. You can decrease these risks by seeking care promptly if symptoms of complications occur. You should also follow the Home Care Instructions provided to you after your procedure.
Q.Will I Be Awake During My Termination Procedure?
You have the option of receiving IV sedation during the termination procedure and therefore will not be awake during the procedure. If you choose not to receive IV sedation, you will remain awake during the procedure and local numbing medication is applied to the cervix which helps decrease the cramps during the procedure.
Q.What If I Change My Mind About Terminating the Pregnancy?
You can change your mind at any time – we want you to be completely sure before terminating the pregnancy. You will have the opportunity to speak to a medical professional and have all of your questions answered before proceeding with any services.
Q.What Are The Risks Of A Termination of Pregnancy?
Termination procedures are very safe, especially in the early weeks of pregnancy. No clinical procedure is without risk and these are fully explained to you before your procedure.
Abortion Aftercare
Q.How Will I Feel After The Abortion?
Recovery after an abortion usually happens fairly quickly. Generally, most patients
can return to a normal routine in a few days. It is normal to experience some mild
to moderate cramping. If you have had pregnancy symptoms such as nausea,
fatigue or breast tenderness, these symptoms will start to go away within a few
days of the procedure. If you still ‘feel pregnant’ after a few days, you should call us
right away.
You may take a shower or tub bath after your procedure. Do not douche. When
bleeding has been light for 24 hours, you may use a tampon. Avoid any products
that contain aspirin or alcohol as they can promote heavier bleeding.
Q.How Much Bleeding Is There After An Abortion?
In most cases, you may bleed for up to 2-3 weeks after an Abortion Procedure, however, this can vary from person to person, ranging from bleeding like a heavy period to on and off spotting. In some cases, you many not experience any bleeding until your next period. If you have any questions about your bleeding you may come in for an appointment or speak with a staff member at (630) 964-0000.
Q.Can I Use Tampons After An Abortion?
When bleeding has been light for 24 hours, you may use a tampon.
Q.When Can I Return to Work?
Most patients can return to work or their normal routine the day after their procedure. Please let our staff know if you need a confidential note to excuse you from work or school for the day and any recovery time that may be needed.
Q.How Soon Can I Have Sex After An Abortion?
When bleeding has been light for 24 hours, you may have intercourse, if you feel emotionally and physical ready. You should use contraception when you are sexually active. You can get pregnant almost immediately following abortion.
Q.What About Travel After The Abortion Procedure?
It’s best not to travel within 24 hours of any clinical procedure. If you must travel, make sure you know how to get emergency medical care if needed.