Recovery After a Termination: How Many Days Do Bleeding and Pain Last, and What to Watch For?
How long does bleeding last after a termination, and which symptoms are dangerous? Op. Dr. Murat Alpay, obstetrician and gynaecologist in Muratpasa, Antalya, explains.
Short answer: Recovery after an abortion is usually quick: period-like cramps and light bleeding in the first days are expected, and most women return to daily life within a few days. To prevent infection, nothing should be put into the vagina for 2–3 weeks (use pads, not tampons), and baths and swimming pools should be avoided; a standing shower is safe. Heavy bleeding, a temperature of 38°C or above, pain that does not settle or foul-smelling discharge need medical attention without delay.
Recovery after a termination is usually quick, but during this period medical advice needs to be followed closely so that the inside of the womb heals and infection is avoided. Although many women can return to their usual activities a few days after the procedure, certain rules need attention for full recovery. For the procedure itself, see our abortion (termination of pregnancy) page.
We have put together the scientific facts and the points to watch for a healthy recovery.
The First Days After a Termination: What to Expect
Mild cramps (similar to period pain) and light vaginal bleeding in the form of spotting in the first few days after the procedure are medically expected.
- Pain relief: Unless your doctor advises otherwise, simple painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be used to ease these cramps.
- Rest: Resting for the first 24 hours is advised, but prolonged, continuous bed rest is not necessary; patients can usually return to their daily activities once they feel well.
How Many Days Does Bleeding Last After a Termination?
After the procedure, bleeding or spotting usually lasts 3 to 7 days; in some women it may tail off over as long as 1–2 weeks. Bleeding that is red in the first days gradually turns brown and fades to spotting. This bleeding is not a period; the first true period usually comes 4–6 weeks later. For details, see our article on the first period after a termination.
Is it normal to have no bleeding at all? Yes. When the inside of the womb has been fully emptied, bleeding after the procedure may be very light or absent; this does not mean the procedure has failed.
How Long Does Pain Last After a Termination?
As the womb returns to its former size, there are cramps similar to period pain. The cramps are usually most noticeable in the first few hours and ease off and pass within 2 to 7 days. Unless your doctor says otherwise, simple painkillers are enough. Pain that keeps getting worse and does not settle with painkillers, however, needs an examination.
When Can You Return to Daily Life and Work?
Because vacuum aspiration (emptying the womb by gentle suction) is a minor procedure, most women can return to their daily routine and desk work within 1–2 days. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be put off for a few days. A standing shower can be taken the day after the procedure.
Golden Rules for Preventing Infection (Pelvic Rest)
After a termination the neck of the womb (cervix) stays slightly open for a while, so the inside of the womb is more exposed to infection. Medical sources therefore recommend "pelvic rest" for 2 to 3 weeks. During this time:
- Nothing should be placed inside the vagina. For period bleeding or spotting, always use sanitary pads instead of tampons.
- Douching (washing inside the vagina with water or soap) must not be done under any circumstances.
- Avoid baths, swimming (sea or pool) and sitting in a tub of hot water; a standing shower does not raise the risk of infection and is safe.
When Should You See a Doctor Without Delay?
The risk of a serious complication after a termination is below 1%. However, if any of the following warning signs occur, a medical assessment should be made without delay:
- Heavy bleeding: Bleeding heavy enough to completely soak more than one large sanitary pad an hour for two hours in a row, or passing large blood clots.
- High temperature: A body temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above.
- Severe pain: Abdominal or groin pain that does not settle with simple painkillers and keeps getting worse.
- Foul-smelling discharge: Vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant or is an abnormal colour, which may be a sign of infection.
Sex and Contraception After a Termination
To keep the risk of infection as low as possible and allow the tissues to heal, avoiding sex for at least 2 weeks after the procedure (or until your doctor gives approval) is a medical requirement.
One of the most important points to remember is that fertility returns very quickly after a termination. Ovulation can restart on average 2–3 weeks after the procedure (sometimes as early as 8–10 days), before the first period has come; unprotected sex during this time can lead to pregnancy. For that reason, if a new pregnancy is not planned, a suitable method of contraception (the contraceptive pill, an intrauterine device/coil and so on) should be started at the same time as the procedure or immediately afterwards.
The Emotional Side and the Follow-Up Examination
Because of the sudden hormonal changes after a termination and the nature of the experience, mood swings (sadness, relief or a fluctuating mood) are quite normal. Getting psychological support or sharing your feelings during this time will help your recovery.
A routine follow-up examination about 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure is advised, to confirm physical healing, assess the state of the inside of the womb and plan contraception.
This page is for information only; for diagnosis and treatment always consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does bleeding last after a termination?
Usually 3–7 days; it may tail off over as long as 1–2 weeks.
How long does pain last after a termination?
Cramps similar to period pain mostly pass within 2–7 days.
When does the period come after a termination?
The first period usually comes within 4–6 weeks; if it has not come by 6–8 weeks, an examination is needed.
When can you become pregnant after a termination?
Because ovulation can return within 2–3 weeks on average, pregnancy is possible even before the first period.
Can you shower after a termination?
A standing shower can be taken the next day; baths, pools and the sea are put off for 2–3 weeks.
How many days after a termination can you have sex?
To reduce the risk of infection, waiting at least 2 weeks or until your doctor approves is advised.