Symptoms After Termination of Pregnancy: What’s Normal and When to See a Doctor
After terminating a pregnancy, whether through medication or vacuum aspiration, the body undergoes changes. Some symptoms are normal and can be managed at home, while others may indicate complications that require immediate medical attention.
1. Normal Symptoms After Termination of Pregnancy
- Vaginal bleeding, which may resemble a menstrual period, typically lasts about 1-2 weeks and gradually decreases. The blood may be bright red initially and then fade to brown.
- Cramping in the lower abdomen as the uterus contracts to expel tissue, similar to menstrual cramps.
- Feeling tired or fatigued as a reaction to hormonal changes in the body.
2. Symptoms to Watch Out For and When to See a Doctor Immediately
- Excessive bleeding, such as needing to change more than 2 sanitary pads per hour for more than 2 consecutive hours, or passing unusually large blood clots.
- Severe abdominal pain that is unbearable or persistent, even after taking pain medication.
- Unusual foul-smelling discharge from the vagina, which may indicate an infection.
- Dizziness, fainting, or frequent lightheadedness, which may signal significant blood loss.
3. How to Safely Care for Yourself After Termination of Pregnancy
- Get plenty of rest and avoid heavy work or strenuous exercise during the first 7 days.
- Avoid sexual intercourse immediately; wait until the bleeding stops to prevent infection.
- Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious foods, especially those high in iron, such as liver, egg yolks, and leafy greens, to help the body recover.
- If you have a fever or experience unusual pain, see a doctor immediately.
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