Periods After Abortion: What to Expect & When to See a Doctor

At times, life brings about challenging experiences in a person’s life. Abortion is one such challenging experience, that can be incredibly overwhelming. An event of such magnitude can take a toll on both the physical and emotional health of a person. One of the most notable changes is found in periods after abortion. These changes could vary from person to person and understanding what to expect during this time can be helpful.

Many factors play a role in how your body recalibrates with abortion, including hormonal balance and what kind of an abortion you have. Numerous women have noticed differences in flow, timing and symptoms when compared to their menstrual cycle before abortion. If you have ever asked yourself ‘How long does it take to see your periods after abortion?’, then continue reading to learn the answer.

• What to Expect from Your First Period After Abortion?
• Symptoms of Period After Abortion

As your body adapts to normal bodily functions after an abortion, it can have a series of experiences that differ from person to person. Here is some of what you can expect:

• Timing of the Period: An abortion causes your menstrual cycle to start again. It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for your periods to return post-abortion. The time frame before you get your first period after an abortion depends on the length of your pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones that have remained in the body for a few weeks may delay menstruation.

• Flow Differences: It is likely that your first period may be shorter than the ones you have experienced in the past if you have undergone a procedural abortion. However, if you have had a medication abortion, then your first period after abortion can last longer. You might also notice that you have passed by substantial clots. It is important to monitor the blood or discharge as foul-smelling discharge could suggest signs of infections.

• Use of Period Products: Many women experience bleeding after they have had an abortion. This is also called post-abortion bleeding by medical professionals. It is important to use sanitary pads after an abortion to gauge how much blood loss has taken place. Always is a purveyor of exceptional quality sanitary pads. The Always Maxi Thick Pads offer you the protection you need for heavy flows. A clean and dry top sheet coupled with an extra absorbent core is certain to keep you dry and comfortable. Numerous doctors discourage the usage of tampons or menstrual cups for at least 2 weeks post-abortion. So, menstrual pads are a safe bet.

When you first get your period after an abortion, they are bound to be accompanied by a unique set of symptoms. You need to understand these to help you manage them well and gain peace of mind. Read on below to learn about these symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Fever
• Chills
• Diarrhoea
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Tiredness

Additionally, fever could also be a sign of infection. So, you must reach out to a doctor if you observe a fever, pelvic pain, body aches or bleeding.

There are a few instances concerning your first period after abortion when you must drop everything and rush to a doctor. Listed below are the reasons:

• Excessive Bleeding: If you are bleeding a lot. For instance, if you soak multiple pads per hour for more than two hours.
• Blood clot: If you happen to pass a blood clot that is larger than a lemon.
• Pain: If you suffer from pain in you back or your belly.
• Foul smell: If you realise that your discharge has a terrible smell.
• Discharge colour: If your discharge appears green or yellow.
• Fever: If you have a fever that is over 100.4°F.
• Medication: If your healthcare professional’s medicines are falling short when it comes to pain management.

Make sure you never rely on self-diagnosis with matters concerning your health. Instead, visit a doctor’s clinic or a hospital to avoid health complications.

As daunting as the task of managing your period after abortion may be, you must prepare yourself so that you are fully equipped to face it. If you are mindful about the symptoms, you can quickly alert a doctor and get the right treatment so that you may avoid physical pain and discomfort. Bear in mind that you are not alone when dealing with issues that accompany your first-period post-abortion. Medical professionals are a call or visit away to give you the assistance you need.

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