Following an abortion you will receive instructions for after care. It is very important that you follow these instructions and take any prescriptions you have been given. In order to reduce the risk of infection, you may be instructed to avoid:
- Having vaginal intercourse
- Using tampons (use pads instead)
- Taking baths
- Douching
- Swimming
Your provider will give you a 24-hour telephone number to call if you become concerned about your condition. If you develop any of the following symptoms, you will need to contact your abortion provider:
- Severe cramps
- Chills, or fever of 100.4 degrees or more
- Bleeding that is heavier than the heaviest day of your normal menstrual period, or that soaks through more than two maxi-pads an hour for more than two hours
- Bad-smelling discharge from your vagina
- Continuing symptoms of pregnancy
The provider will also give you an appointment or referral for a follow up exam within 2 weeks of a medical abortion and will suggest a follow-up visit within 2 to 4 weeks of a surgical abortion to confirm that you have not developed any complications. In the case of a medical abortion, the provider also confirms that the abortion is complete. Even if you feel fine, you should go to your post-abortion appointment.
Some women choose to go to their regular family doctor for their follow-up exam. You may want to determine that your doctor will support your choice because it is important that you tell your doctor that you had an abortion. You should also let the provider who provided your abortion know that you plan to see your own provider for the follow-up exam.
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