Abortion is a medical process of putting an end to your pregnancy by removing a fetus before it can survive outside the uterus. Women have different responses after abortion. Though it is a very effective birth control method, it does have certain physical and emotional side effects.
1. Physical Side Effects
The after effects of abortion encompass a number of gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
Other irregularities include bleeding, breast tenderness and an undefined white discharge from the breasts.
2. Emotional Side Effects
They may stimulate a wide range of negative emotions, including shame, anger, guilt, isolation and mood swings.
Depressions and relationship problems are quite common.
Ways to Take Care After An Abortion –
Proper precautions need to be taken to protect yourself from the side effects of abortion and take necessary care. Some of the ways are as follows:
1. Protect your uterus and tubes from infection- Avoid having sexual intercourse for at least 2 weeks after abortion as there are chances of getting infected. Once you resume having sex, use proper birth control measures. Infection can be prevented by means of:
a. Using sanitary napkins instead of tampons at least for 2 weeks
b. Avoiding swimming for 2 weeks
c. Using condoms at the time of sex
2. Avoid Strenuous Workouts- Bleeding increases when you go for heavy workouts.
3. Avoid Washing Post-Abortion- It is advisable not to bathe for 24 hours after abortion as you may end up feeling lazy and low.
Avoid Alcohol- Chances of bleeding increase if you consume alcohol after abortion. So, it is advisable not to have it for 48 hours post-abortion.
Avoid Squeezing or Stimulating your breast- Your breasts get enlarged to produce milk for breastfeeding when your body was preparing for pregnancy. Post abortion, your breasts may leak. Squeezing and stimulating your breast will increase the lactation.
It is advisable to go for checkups post-abortion at least once in two or three weeks even if you are fine.
