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In-Clinic Abortion Care

Table of Contents


Overview

An in-clinic abortion is a minor medical procedure to end a pregnancy. The most common type is vacuum aspiration. The doctor puts a tube in the uterus. The tube uses gentle suction to remove the contents of the uterus. This is done in a clinic by a doctor who has special training.

What can you expect as you recover?

You may have cramps and light bleeding for up to 2 weeks after an in-clinic abortion. Most people can return to normal activities 1 to 2 days after the procedure.

Carefully follow all of your doctor's instructions after you've had an abortion.

If you didn't get instructions, follow this general advice.

When to call a doctor

Your doctor will give you information about what to expect after an abortion. Normal symptoms that most often occur include:

Follow your doctor's instructions on what to do at home.

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.

Call your doctor now if you have any of these symptoms after an abortion:

Call your doctor for an appointment if you have any of these symptoms after a recent abortion:

Follow-up care

Unless you are having problems, you probably won't need a follow-up exam after an in-clinic abortion.


Credits for In-Clinic Abortion Care

Current as of: November 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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