Abortion in early pregnancy is very safe and effective if modern abortion methods are used correctly, such as using the correct abortion medication. The use of such medication has no long-term effects on women’s health because it is similar to a natural miscarriage.
Experiencing pregnancy termination allows many people to learn and understand the world more deeply and live more cautiously. One thing I want to emphasize to all of us is that pregnancy termination or abortion is a health service and a safe option for women who are not ready for pregnancy.
In the past year, many people have messaged with concerns both before and after pregnancy termination. Today, the admin has compiled some of these to share with you.
1. “Will the treatment completely cure it?”
After treatment, there may be side effects. Common symptoms include:
- Lower abdominal pain caused by the use of misoprostol, also known as Cytotec, which causes uterine contractions. The pain is usually less severe compared to a surgical abortion. The pain will improve as the uterus expels the remaining contents.
- Vaginal bleeding. Abortion/termination of pregnancy with medication causes the uterus to contract to expel the embryo, which can result in prolonged bleeding. The use of abortion medication will cause more and longer vaginal bleeding than a regular menstrual period. The amount of bleeding is related to the gestational age. The most bleeding occurs within 3 – 6 hours after using misoprostol and continues for about 1 week.
- Diarrhea. There may be diarrhea (more than 3 times a day), which is a side effect of using misoprostol. The symptoms will resolve on their own in a short time.
- Fever. Misoprostol can raise body temperature. The fever will not last long, about 1 – 2 hours. You can take antipyretics such as paracetamol.
2. “After treatment with pregnancy termination, can I have children again?”
If symptoms improve and menstruation returns to normal, there is a chance to have children again. The use of abortion medication does not affect women’s health and reproductive health. Most women will ovulate within 2-3 weeks, with the earliest being 11 days after pregnancy termination. Therefore, contraception should be used immediately after pregnancy termination.
3. “When can I have sexual intercourse again?” After there is no more vaginal bleeding.
4. “How can I prevent pregnancy?” Contraception should be used immediately after this.
5. “Is there a chance to get pregnant again?” Yes, immediately, even if menstruation has not yet returned.
6. “Do I need to take several days off work?” You may need to rest for 1-2 days until you feel normal, and then you can return to work as usual.
In summary, after pregnancy termination, there will be vaginal bleeding, and you may feel abdominal tightness similar to menstruation for about 1 week, along with moderate fatigue. These symptoms occur and resolve on their own. Women may feel relieved from the stress of an unplanned pregnancy and receive safe treatment, but they may also feel depressed and sad for a period, which is a result of hormonal changes. Generally, these symptoms will improve and disappear on their own.