is normal for up to 8 weeks. Use maxi pads so you can monitor your bleeding. No bleeding is also normal. Uterine Massage can decrease cramping. To perform uterine massage, use the heel of your hand and push inward firmly on your abdomen while rubbing in a downward motion, from your naval to your pubic hair line. The purpose of uterine massage is to stimulate your uterus to contract back to its pre-pregnant size. Massage may cause more bleeding as your body passes clots that it needs to pass for the cramping to stop. If you experience severe cramps that are not relieved with medication, please contact us.

• If you soak more than 1 pad an hour for more than 2 hours or pass large clots, call the clinic immediately.
• Avoid aspirin and alcohol. These substances may cause heavier bleeding.
• Avoid heaving lifting or strenuous activity for 2 weeks.

Some women experience breast engorgement. If your breasts are painful or you have secretion, bind them tightly with a wide ace bandage. Ice packs may be used (for 10 minutes every half hour). Avoid stimulation such as hot water from a shower or touching or kissing. Pregnancy symptoms should subside within one week.

Ovulation can occur at any time after an abortion. Use birth control method to prevent future pregnancy. If you are starting birth control pills, use a back-up method (condoms, spermicides, not having intercourse) with the first cycle of pills. To learn more about birth control options, see the visit our Birth Control Comparison Chart at www.Birth-Control-Comparison.info.

Your cervix may be open for 1-2 weeks. To reduce the risk of infection:

• Take antibiotics as directed. Check your temperature daily for one week. If your temperature is 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, call the clinic immediately.
• Do not put anything in your vagina for 1-2 weeks.
• Do not use tampons until your next period (in 4-8 weeks).
• Get some rest; drink fluids (water, juice).
• Call us to schedule a follow-up exam in 3-4 weeks.

A wide range of feelings is normal including relief, sadness, anger, or confusion. If you would like to talk with someone, call Cedar River Clinics or you can call Exhale which is a confidential national multi-lingual toll-free talk-line: 866-439-4253. Read personal stories and share yours at www.fwhc.org/stories. You are not alone – one in three American women has an abortion.

When women make important life decisions about unplanned or accidental pregnancy, they deserve respect and good health care. Women across the country are demanding policies that increase access to a complete range of women’s health care. Vote! Take Action!  Speak Out! Tell your story. Ask questions. End the silence. Work together with other women. Stand up for women’s equality.