How many days of rest are needed after a medical abortion?

Feb 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Planning to undergo a medical abortion, I would like to know how many days of rest are needed afterward. I have some work arrangements to coordinate, so I need to understand the specific duration of rest required.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

The required rest period after a medical abortion varies from person to person, but generally, a rest period of 7–15 days is recommended.

After a medical abortion, the body requires time to recover. For the first 2–3 days following the procedure, strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects should be avoided. The specific recovery time varies depending on individual health status, age, and gestational age at the time of abortion. Cramping, bleeding, and passing tissue may occur within the first 7 days after the abortion, which are all normal reactions. It is recommended to ensure adequate rest, maintain good personal hygiene, and avoid sexual intercourse and the use of tampons during this period to reduce the risk of infection.

If the patient has a weak constitution, recovers slowly, or experiences complications such as infection or tissue residue, the rest period may need to be extended to 15 days or longer. The doctor will provide specific recommendations regarding rest time based on the patient's individual circumstances, including age, gestational age, and the method of abortion used. Patients should strictly follow the doctor's advice to ensure adequate recovery.