The information presented here is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.
If you’re unexpectedly pregnant and unsure of what to do, you have three choices. These choices are: parenting your child, placing your child for adoption, and abortion.
This choice is 100% yours. You do deserve, however, to have all the information about all of your choices. This includes educating yourself about abortion recovery. Why? Because an educated woman is an empowered woman. The decision is difficult, and each potential outcome of your pregnancy is difficult in its own way. It is safest for you to understand the emotional and physical impact of abortion before you decide to have an abortion.
Whether you are considering a physician assisted abortion or a self-managed abortion, recovery is an important aspect that should not be brushed off. Here are four important things to know about abortion recovery:
1. Abortion is Difficult Too:
If you’re panicking about being able to afford a baby, the idea of your family and peers passing judgement about your unexpected pregnancy, and the idea of having to place your education or career on hold, abortion can seem like a quick and easy fix to make the problem go away. It’s important to remember that every option is difficult in some way, though. Abortion is not any different. Let’s consider some of the ways that abortion can be difficult:
The time-consuming nature of an abortion and abortion recovery is a consideration. A medication abortion will take approximately 2-3 days. During this time, it is in your best interest that you do not work or attend school to ensure that you can safely endure your side effects.
Even if it is inconvenient, it is important to hit pause on life for a few days, after your abortion, as well. It is in your best interest to rest and avoid pushing your body too hard in any way. This includes school, work, or exercise. You will need to closely monitor your physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing. These include signs of hemorrhage, infection, and an incomplete abortion. You will most likely need to ensure that you are properly taking the infection prevention medication given to you by your doctor, and medicine for pain management.
The cost of an abortion is also something to consider. A medication abortion can present a large upfront cost, typically between $150-$600. Though it may be more expensive, it is important for your health and safety to ensure that you are obtaining abortion pills from a licensed physician. The FDA specifically warns against buying abortion pills online.
2. Your feelings and hormones after abortion
Even if you felt very sure in your decision to have an abortion, you may still experience some big emotions and hormonal shifts after an abortion.
An abortion is an intense, unplanned event. This alone can cause emotional turmoil. It has been found that abortion can lead to higher rates of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Many women report emotional and psychological side effects. These can include grief, regret, shame, substance abuse, depression, relationship issues, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.
These emotional side effects are often compounded by the hormonal imbalance that may result after having an abortion. The endocrine system may feel repercussions as a result from either a medication abortion or surgical abortion. Initial pregnancy and any type of pregnancy loss can interrupt your hormones and reset your menstrual cycle. These hormones can balance quickly after an abortion. Often, however, it can take much longer for your hormones to balance after your abortion.
3. Side effects and adverse effects
It is important to be aware of all the potential side effects and adverse effects that can happen to you after having an abortion. These include severe cramping, heavy to extreme bleeding, infection & possible sepsis, prolonged bleeding & hemorrhage, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, dizziness, and failed abortion resulting in surgical intervention.
4. Not-so-quick-fix
According to the Mayo Clinic, having an abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences. It is important to understand that some of these may be long term or may begin presenting much later in life. Many women have reported long term relationship difficulties after an abortion, as well as lingering depression, anxiety, and increased levels of stress.
Some studies have shown that abortion can be a risk factor for breast cancer, as well as a risk factor for delivering a preterm baby, later down the road.
Knowing about the abortion procedure & abortion recovery are important steps in making a well-informed decision that is best for you. You can find this information, support, and much more at the Cline Center.
You are not alone, and you never will be. The Cline Center is your best first step.
Call 601-487-1064, today.