If you have elected to terminate a pregnancy with an early surgical abortion, you may have a lot of emotions regarding your decision. One of these emotions may be apprehension, especially when it comes to what you can expect as you recover at home after the procedure. Every woman is different, but in general, this is what you can expect in the days and weeks after an early surgical abortion.

Some Cramping and Discomfort

When your abortion is conducted rather early, you should not have to deal with too much serious pain and discomfort. However, you will probably have some cramping, about on-par with what you experience during a period. You can take ibuprofen or naproxen to ease your discomfort. Your doctor may write you a prescription for a stronger form and pain reliever than you're able to get over-the-counter, otherwise, you should be safe taking the over-the-counter form as directed on the package.

Bleeding

The bleeding will last for a couple of days. It may be about as heavy as a heavy period for two or three days, but then it should slow down to a gentle flow. Call your doctor if you have to change your pad more often than every four hours, as this may be a sign that you're not healing properly.

Tiredness

You've just been through a medical procedure, and an emotional one at that. It is completely normal for you to feel tired and even exhausted. Give yourself time to relax and recover. Take at least two or three days off from work or school, and avoid any strenuous physical activity for about a week. Have someone help you clean your house, prepare meals, and do other more demanding tasks. Put off going to the gym until you are fully healed and feeling like yourself again.

Sexual Side Effects

You should avoid intercourse for at least a week after an early surgical abortion. After this time, with your doctor's permission, it should be okay to proceed with sexual activity again. However, you should keep an eye out for side effects like pain during intercourse, unwanted odors, and bleeding after sex. Bring these to the attention of your doctor, since they could be signs of poor healing.

To learn more about early surgical abortions and the recovery process, talk to your doctor. No question is too silly. Your doctor's job is to guide you through this process!