After an Abortion: Aftercare Guide
How to take care of yourself after an abortion: recovery guidance and medical support in Barcelona.
What to Expect Immediately After an Abortion?
It’s important to know which symptoms are a normal part of the recovery process after an induced abortion.
Is bleeding normal? How long does it last?
Yes, vaginal bleeding is completely normal.
After a Medical Abortion: It’s usually heavier than a normal period, often with clots.
It may come and go for 1 to 3 weeks.
After a Surgical Abortion: The initial bleeding is usually lighter, similar to a normal period.
It may last a few days or continue as light, irregular spotting for 1-2 weeks.
Will I feel pain? How can I relieve it?
It’s common to feel cramping, similar to intense menstrual cramps.
Pain Management: You can take pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following our instructions. Applying local heat (a hot water bottle) can also help.
What other physical symptoms might I notice?
Tiredness, breast tenderness, mild nausea, or a slight increase in body temperature in the first 24 h are symptoms that can happen and are usually normal.
Essential Aftercare for Your Physical Recovery
Personal Hygiene
You can shower as usual.
Avoid baths (bathtubs, pools, sea) for at least 2 weeks to reduce the risk of infection.
Use pads or period underwear for bleeding.
Do not use tampons or menstrual cups until your next period.
Rest and Returning to Your Routine
We recommend taking it easy for the first 24-48 hours. Most women can return to their usual routine (work, school) in 1 or 2 days.
Avoid intense exercise for 1-2 weeks.
Sexual Activity
It’s recommended to avoid penetrative sex for at least 2 weeks.
This helps prevent infections.
Induced abortion is one of the safest medical procedures, with serious complications in fewer than 1% of cases when performed legally and with appropriate healthcare.
Warning Signs: When to Contact Us Urgently
Symptoms That Require Attention After an Abortion
Although complications are rare, contact us or go to an emergency service immediately if you experience:
Very Heavy Bleeding: Soaking 2 large pads per hour for 2 hours in a row.
Severe Abdominal Pain: Strong pain that does not improve with pain relievers.
Fever: A temperature of 38 °C or higher that persists.
Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge.
Severe Overall Malaise: Extreme weakness, dizziness, or fainting.
When you are discharged, we will provide an emergency contact phone number available 24 hours.
Medical Follow-Up and Next Steps After the Abortion
Should I already be thinking about contraception?
Yes, it’s very important! Because you can get pregnant again very soon. Many contraceptive methods can be started immediately after the procedure.
This is the ideal time to choose an effective method if you wish. Talk to our team about your family planning options.
When will my menstrual period return?
Most women have their first period between 4 and 8 weeks after the procedure.
Do I need a follow-up visit?
Yes, we generally recommend a follow-up visit about 2-3 weeks after the intervention to confirm that recovery is progressing well and to answer any questions.
Will I need a medical note for work?
If you need it, we can provide a medical note for the time you were at the clinic, stating only the date and time.
The document will not specify the reason for the procedure, ensuring full protection of your privacy.
Your Emotional Well-Being Matters, Too
It’s normal to feel sad, relieved, or confused.
There is no single “correct” way to feel.
All of these reactions are valid. Give yourself permission to feel what you feel, without judging yourself.
Where can I find emotional support?
Talking about your feelings can help.
Consider a trusted support system or our team at Clínica Ginecológica Sants.
If you need it, we can guide you toward professional psychological support resources in Barcelona.
Prices for Our Services
Consultation (Private)
Information visit + ultrasound + procedure plan. You can book directly with us, no referral needed. If you decide to continue with the procedure, the consultation fee (100€) is deducted from the final price.
Ultrasound included
Estimated quote
Deducted
Surgical Abortion
*Price for an abortion under 12 weeks with local anaesthesia. You can check the price by week of pregnancy here.
The total varies depending on gestational weeks and the type of anaesthesia/sedation, due to greater complexity and resources required. At your first visit, we provide an estimated quote.
Specialist team
Operating room and stay
Follow-up
Medical Abortion
Includes the information visit and medication. We explain the process, what to expect, and what follow-up will be like.
Medications included
Step-by-step explanation
Follow-up
Anti-D Vaccine
Anti-D prophylaxis when indicated (for example, in Rh-negative patients). We’ll let you know during your appointment if it applies to your case.
Administration at the clinic
Medical recommendation
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Frequently Asked Questions About Aftercare After an Abortion
Is it normal to keep bleeding one week after the abortion?
When can I resume sexual activity after an abortion?
Can I use tampons or a menstrual cup after the abortion?
It’s normal to have questions about care and recovery after an abortion, both physically and emotionally.
You can check our Frequently Asked Questions section for guidance, but remember you can always contact us if you need clearer or more personalized support.
When does menstruation return after an abortion?
Menstruation usually returns between 4 and 8 weeks after the procedure.
However, ovulation can happen before your first period, so there is a risk of becoming pregnant right away if you don’t use protection.
After an abortion, you can start an effective contraceptive method immediately, whether hormonal contraception, DIU or implant, depending on medical advice and the patient’s choice.