Smart Strategies for Staying Comfortable During a Medical Abortion

A medical abortion involves taking two pills at home to terminate your pregnancy. They are usually recommended for pregnancies less than six weeks along according to menstrual age. Although having the abortion at home makes many women more comfortable, there are side effects to the pills. Follow this advice to manage the side effects and to stay as comfortable as possible during the abortion.

Take Pain Medicine

Because medical abortion causes cramping that can last for several hours, use an over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, to ease your discomfort. It can help to take the pain medicine about 30 minutes before you take the second pill in the abortion procedure, since it causes the most intense cramping. Talk to your gynecologist about which pain medicine he or she recommends, but avoid taking aspirin, which will intensify your bleeding. In addition to pain medications, a heating pad or hot water bottle can also help with cramping.

Discuss Nausea Medication

Some women experience nausea and vomiting during a medical abortion. Ask your gynecologist if you should take an anti-nausea medicine to help you feel more comfortable. Although you can eat or drink as normal during the procedure, you may not feel up to it. Eating a small meal before you start taking the pills can help. During the abortion, try to drink liquids even if you can’t eat so you don’t risk dehydration. Ginger ale can help to keep you hydrated and settle your stomach.

Give Yourself Time to Rest

You will need to rest during the abortion itself, as the medications can make you feel tired. Set yourself up in a comfortable place and make sure you have things to distract you, like movies, snacks, and books. Although you can return to your normal activities the next day, you may be more comfortable if you give yourself a few days to recover.

If you’re considering abortion in Washington, D.C., Washington Surgi-Clinic can help. Visit our office to get the facts you need about your options for first and second-trimester abortions , morning after pills, and more. To make an appointment, dial (202) 659-9403.