After my abortion
The aftercare helpline
If you are calling from Northern Ireland, please call
+44 800 247 1122
If you are calling from the Republic of Ireland please call
+44 1789 508 211
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you have any questions or are unsure about anything after your abortion treatment please call our aftercare helpline.
During opening hours, you can also call the clinic where you had your treatment for advice. The number should be written in the front of your guide to bpas.
Free medical and counselling services are available in Ireland for women who have had an abortion. These services are funded by the Crisis Pregnancy Agency. The counsellors and doctors working in these services are experienced in supporting women who have had an abortion. Services are free of charge to all women, regardless of their age, income or where they live. Click here to visit the Crisis Pregnancy Agency Aftercare Website.
What to expect
Recovery after an uncomplicated abortion usually happens fairly quickly, but it is different for every woman. There are some things to expect which are normal and other signs and symptoms which are not. It's important that you know about both.
Bleeding
Most women bleed for around one to two weeks after an abortion. It is best to use sanitary towels during this time. You should expect the bleeding to be like a normal menstrual period. You may also pass some small blood clots. In most cases, the bleeding will then stop but you may experience spotting until your next period. If your bleeding soaks 2 or more sanitary towels per hour for 2 hours in a row, then you should contact the clinic, or aftercare line urgently for advice. If you cannot call, go to A&E.
Pain
Most women experience off and on cramping for about a week after an abortion. You can take painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetemol if needed.
If you have pain that is more severe or isn't controlled by pain medicine, you should contact the Aftercare Line.
Physical symptoms to look out for
These are some unexpected or unusual symptoms after an abortion:
If you have any of these, you should phone the bpas clinic where you had your treatment or the Aftercare Line immediately. Alternatively you should go to A&E or see your GP urgently.
Feelings
After abortion most women feel relieved, but some can feel sad or guilty.
