what happens to your body when you have an abortion

Abortion is a common medical procedure that involves the termination of a pregnancy. It can be performed through various methods, depending on factors such as the stage of pregnancy and individual preferences. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what happens to your body when you have an abortion, including the types of abortion procedures, physical and emotional effects, aftercare, and recovery.

Types of Abortion

There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical.

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion involves the use of medication to end a pregnancy. It is typically performed in the early stages of pregnancy, up to 10 weeks gestation. The process involves taking two different medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, which work together to stop the pregnancy from progressing and cause the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

Mifepristone is taken first, usually in a clinic setting, and works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later, either orally or vaginally, and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion involves a medical procedure to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. There are two main types of surgical abortion: aspiration abortion and dilation and evacuation (D&E).

Aspiration abortion, also known as suction aspiration or vacuum aspiration, is typically performed in the first trimester of pregnancy, up to 14 weeks gestation. The procedure involves dilating the cervix and using suction to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is typically performed in the second trimester of pregnancy, after 14 weeks gestation. The procedure involves dilating the cervix and using instruments to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Physical Effects of Abortion

Short-Term Effects

After an abortion, you may experience various physical symptoms as your body adjusts to the changes. These short-term effects can include:

1. Cramping and pain: You may experience cramping and abdominal pain similar to menstrual cramps. Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage this discomfort.
2. Bleeding and spotting: Vaginal bleeding and spotting are common after an abortion. The amount and duration of bleeding can vary from person to person, but it usually lasts for a few days to a few weeks.
3. Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting after an abortion, especially if they had a medical abortion. This is usually due to the medications used and should subside within a few days.
4. Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes after an abortion can cause breast tenderness or soreness. This typically resolves within a week or two.
5. Fatigue: It is normal to feel tired or fatigued after an abortion. Rest and self-care are important for physical and emotional recovery.

Long-Term Effects and Risks

While abortion is generally a safe procedure, there are some potential long-term effects and risks to be aware of:

1. Infection: In rare cases, an infection may develop after an abortion. Symptoms can include fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge, and abdominal pain. Prompt treatment with antibiotics can resolve the infection.
2. Incomplete abortion: In some cases, the abortion procedure may not remove all of the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. This can cause prolonged bleeding and increase the risk of infection. An additional procedure may be necessary to remove the remaining tissue.
3. Damage to the cervix or uterus: In rare instances, the instruments used during a surgical abortion may cause damage to the cervix or uterus. This can lead to complications such as heavy bleeding or scarring.

It is important to note that having an abortion does not typically affect future fertility. Most people who have had an abortion can go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Having an abortion can be an emotionally complex experience, and everyone’s response is unique. Some common emotional reactions after an abortion include:

Potential Emotional Responses

1. Relief: Some people feel a sense of relief after an abortion, especially if the pregnancy was unintended or the decision to have an abortion was clear.
2. Sadness and grief: It is normal to feel sadness, grief, or a sense of loss after an abortion, even if you feel confident in your decision.
3. Guilt and shame: Societal stigma and personal beliefs can contribute to feelings of guilt or shame after an abortion.
4. Anger: Some people may feel angry at themselves, their partner, or the circumstances that led to the pregnancy and abortion.

Factors Influencing Emotional Response

Several factors can influence an individual’s emotional response to having an abortion:

1. Personal beliefs and values: Your personal beliefs about abortion, motherhood, and family can shape your emotional experience.
2. Support system: Having a strong support system of family, friends, or a partner can help you cope with the emotional aspects of having an abortion.
3. Circumstances surrounding the abortion: The reasons for having an abortion, such as an unintended pregnancy, financial instability, or health concerns, can impact your emotional response.

Coping Strategies

There are several strategies that can help you cope with the emotional effects of having an abortion:

1. Counseling and therapy: Talking to a counselor or therapist who is knowledgeable about abortion can provide a safe space to process your emotions and develop coping strategies.
2. Support groups: Joining a support group for people who have had abortions can provide a sense of community and understanding.
3. Self-care practices: Engaging in self-care activities such as exercise, mindfulness, journaling, or spending time with loved ones can help promote emotional well-being.

Aftercare and Recovery

Physical Recovery

After an abortion, it is important to take care of your physical health to ensure a smooth recovery:

1. Rest and relaxation: Give your body time to heal by getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days after the procedure.
2. Managing pain and discomfort: Over-the-counter pain medications, heating pads, and gentle exercise can help alleviate cramping and discomfort.
3. Avoiding strenuous activities: Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, and sexual activity for at least a week after the abortion or as advised by your healthcare provider.
4. Follow-up appointments: Attend any recommended follow-up appointments to ensure that the abortion is complete and to monitor your physical recovery.

Emotional Recovery

Just as physical recovery is important, so is taking care of your emotional well-being after an abortion:

1. Processing emotions: Allow yourself to experience and process your emotions without judgment. It is normal to have a range of feelings after an abortion.
2. Seeking support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist for emotional support. Surround yourself with people who are understanding and non-judgmental.
3. Engaging in self-care: Practice self-compassion and engage in activities that promote emotional well-being, such as spending time in nature, practicing relaxation techniques, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.

Misconceptions and Stigma

There are several common misconceptions and stigmas surrounding abortion that can contribute to misinformation and shame.

Common Misconceptions

1. Abortion and breast cancer risk: Studies have shown that having an abortion does not increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
2. Abortion and mental health issues: While some people may experience emotional distress after an abortion, having an abortion does not cause long-term mental health problems.
3. Abortion and future fertility: Having an abortion does not typically affect future fertility. Most people who have had an abortion can go on to have healthy pregnancies.

Stigma Surrounding Abortion

Abortion stigma can take many forms, including:

1. Social stigma: Negative attitudes and judgments from others in society can make people feel ashamed or isolated for having an abortion.
2. Self-stigma: Internalizing negative beliefs about abortion can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, or self-judgment.

It is important to challenge abortion stigma by promoting accurate information, supporting individuals who have had abortions, and advocating for safe and accessible abortion care.

Conclusion

Having an abortion can be a significant event that impacts both physical and emotional well-being. Understanding what happens to your body during and after an abortion can help you prepare for the experience and prioritize self-care.

Remember that everyone’s experience is unique, and there is no right or wrong way to feel after an abortion. It is important to give yourself time to heal, seek support when needed, and make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

If you are considering an abortion or have had an abortion and need support, there are resources available, including healthcare providers, counselors, and support organizations. You are not alone in this experience, and help is available.

FAQs