For medical abortions, physical complications are rare. If you experience any chills, fever, or nausea, these symptoms should subside quickly. However, if you experience any of these symptoms for more than 24 hours following taking the second set of pills, call your provider. While uncommon, these symptoms may indicate an infection.

How patients feel following a medical abortion varies with each individual. When the second set of medication is taken, prepare to have a day of rest in a comfortable setting. It typically takes 1 to 2 days for patients to return to their baseline of health. Heavy bleeding, cramping, and large blood clots are common once the process begins.

You can return to normal activities the day following the medical abortion if you feel capable. However, do not do any strenuous activities for several days.

It may take hours to days before bleeding and cramping is totally complete for medical abortions. For medical abortions, it is okay to use tampons or menstrual cups to help with this bleeding. Often it is recommended to use pads in order to track bleeding for the few days following an abortion.

Expect a regular period after 6-8 weeks following the medical abortion (if you don’t start a birth control method which affects your menstrual cycle). Birth control can be used immediately following a medical abortion, as it is possible to get pregnant very soon after. After a medical abortion, you can have sex whenever you feel ready.