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After-Care Instructions

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Activity

You just had minor surgery and need to take it easy for three to seven days depending on the stage of the pregnancy terminated. Strenuous exercise and lifting over 10 pounds is not recommended. Work and school excuses are available through the Recovery Room nurse.

Fever

You will need to take your temperature every morning for 3 days. It is not unusual to run a slight fever of around 99 to 100 degrees. If it exceeds 101 degrees you need to call the clinic promptly. You may need another antibiotic.

Bleeding

Bleeding after an abortion is different for every woman. It can range from none to heavy. It can last from two days to six weeks. It may start and stop and go from light to heavy several times. Your bleeding might not even start for several days. You may pass clots that can range in size from a dime to the size of your fist. The clotting will usually stop in four to six days. Resting and massaging your uterus will help to pass the clots and decrease heavier bleeding. If you bleed enough to fill a pad or more in an hour, call the clinic right away.

Breast Tenderness

Your breasts may remain swollen and tender for several days. It will help to wear a snug bra day and night, avoid stimulation of your breast, apply ice packs to the breast and take Tylenol for the pain, not aspirin.

Cramping

Cramping is normal for the first few days after the procedure. The best way to handle cramps is to rest, recline and massage deep into your uterus. Ibuprofen 800mg or Aleve are recommended to relieve cramps. If these measures do not help, use Tylenol #3 or Darvocet N and take as directed. Do not take any medications that contain Aspirin.

Birth Control

If the physician prescribes you birth control pills after the procedure have them filled at the pharmacy of your choice. Start taking them the Sunday after your procedure. Birth control pills will help regulate your hormones and decrease post procedure bleeding this prescription is not for the prevention of pregnancy. Antibiotics can change the effect of your birth control pills. You must use condoms anytime you are on any antibiotics.

Follow-Up Exam

You will need a follow-up exam in 4 weeks to be sure everything is back to normal. Remember, your pregnancy test will remain positive for 2-4 weeks after your abortion. Even though you will feel fine in 4 weeks you still need to see our physician or one we have referred you to. You will have a follow-up appointment card in your recovery room bag along with instructions.

What NOT to Do

Do not put anything in your vagina until after your follow-up exam, including tampons, douching, sexual intercourse, tub baths, and swimming. Do not overexert yourself. You just had surgery and need to take it easy for a while.