Safe abortion in Chennai is a straightforward medical procedure that does not cause any lasting complications. However, women may experience having an abortion as a difficult phase not just physically but also emotionally. The sudden shift in hormone levels, combined with the mental strain of choosing to have the procedure, can make recovery difficult in many women. If women wonder how to care for themselves after an abortion, they should first understand that the recovery process often depends on how far along they were in pregnancy and how the abortion was done. To make it simple, it is recommended to follow the dos and don’ts after an abortion.
Do’s after an abortion
Abortion recovery time varies from woman to woman. A first-trimester abortion with no side effects will likely recover in a few days whereas, recovery may take longer for late-term abortions. Common symptoms that appear soon after an abortion, such as diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, and headache go away quickly during recovery. Symptoms can be eased with rest and with medications as prescribed by the abortion doctor.
Rest – Go home and rest after the procedure. Normal activities can be resumed the following day. Using heat pads to relieve cramping or pain from sore breasts, keeping hydrated, especially if nausea is one of the symptoms, and staying home for a couple of days to overcome fatigue and rest during recovery are some of the methods of self-care during the post-abortion period. Avoid activity that causes increased pain.
Medication – It is an important aspect of post-abortion self-care to take medicines as directed by the doctor to lessen bleeding or reduce the chances of infection. If pain medicines were given as IV drugs during the procedure or are prescribed after abortion, follow as advised to stay comfortable and get sleep.
Monitor symptoms – Minor side effects are normal after an abortion but knowing what is excess and notifying that is crucial. Signs of complication include excessive pain/cramping, bleeding, and fever. By notifying the doctor on time, appropriate treatment can be availed sooner. Excessive bleeding can be identified if more than two maxi-pads get soaked within an hour or two hours in a row. Fever that reads at or more than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit is also considered an extreme side effect. Unbearable pain that disturbs sleep or is nagging should also be notified for any possible infection or trauma.
Contraception – Ovulation typically takes place 21 to 29 days after the abortion, so contraceptive protection is always advised post-abortion as it allows one to plan and avoid potential pregnancy while still in the recovery process. It is advisable to consult the doctor at a pregnancy abortion clinic in Chennai on contraceptive methods appropriate to the abortion procedure.
Emotional support – After having an abortion, levels of hormones like progesterone and estrogen gradually decrease. This can cause depression and changes in mood. Return of the menstrual cycle will stabilize hormone levels. If ongoing emotional difficulties are experienced, they should not be ignored. There is an increased risk of emotional side effects in women with mental health challenges. Women should speak with family members and friends for emotional support and care after an abortion.
Follow-up appointment – It is recommended to keep all follow-up appointments, especially after medical abortion, in order that the doctor can make sure the abortion was complete and to rule out any signs of infection in case of a surgical abortion.
Don’ts after an abortion
Exertion – It is advised not to engage in high levels of physical activity or exercise
strenuously for the first week so that the uterus is allowed to heal. Despite feeling absolutely
fine, it is not good to exercise strenuously for the first week as cramping and bleeding can
become more by increased activity like returning to work immediately.
Painful breasts – If breasts have become painful and swollen and have a watery discharge
from the nipples for a few days after an abortion, do not press, massage, or rub the breasts.
Use hot/cold packs for relief until symptoms fade away.
Infection – It takes some time for the cervix to close after an abortion which leaves an
increased risk of infection. To reduce the chances of infection immediately after an
abortion, avoid:
1. Using tampons – The biggest risk after having an abortion is getting an infection even though in many cases antibiotics are given. After having an abortion is best to use sanitary towels/pads rather than tampons or menstrual cups as this helps to reduce the chances of getting an infection. Use of tampons may be resumed once the next period arrives.
2. Having penetrative sex – sexual activity may be started as soon as one feels ready after an abortion but doctors recommend waiting until any vaginal bleeding stops, as this will reduce the risk of infection.
3. Inserting anything in the vagina – Any device or tool including fingers, toys or douches should not be inserted into the vagina during the healing period after an abortion to prevent risks of infection and transmittable diseases.
4. Using swimming pools – While still recovering from an abortion, any medium of contact, including exposure to contaminated water can cause infection.
5. Soaking in bathtubs – Though taking showers and baths is good to relieve pain and cramps, using a bathtub to soak in it is not advisable for fear of infection.
Safe Abortion in Chennai
Complications occur more commonly when abortions are obtained from unsafe providers or locations. Unsafe abortion methods such as ingestion of the poison, toxic substances, or medications, insertion of a foreign body in the anus, vagina, or cervix, or abdominal trauma are often related to complications that need immediate treatment for systemic/physical injuries or infection. Potential complications are rare following a medical or surgical abortion at a safe abortion clinic in Chennai. Even when taking all the necessary precautions, certain risks or pre-existing conditions may pose complications. Patient education and communication are key factors to ensure safety in abortion care.