After a manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) abortion, it's important to receive proper postabortion care and, if needed, have access to contraception options.
Here are some things to consider:
- After your MVA, it’s normal to bleed for a few days. Use pads to keep track of bleeding; you can switch to tampons or a menstrual cup when you feel comfortable.
- You can return to your normal activities, like school, work, or sports, whenever you feel ready.
- Emotionally, it’s normal to feel many different feelings, like relief, sadness, or mood changes. Give yourself time to heal, and talk to someone you trust or reach out to our counseling team for support.
- It’s safe to have sex again when you feel physically and emotionally ready.
- Remember, you can get pregnant again very soon, sometimes within two weeks, so using contraception is important if you want to avoid another pregnancy. You can start any method of contraception immediately after a surgical abortion. Before you leave the clinic, you may be offered information about different contraceptive methods available, and explore which option feels right for you. If you’d like to learn more about contraception, visit findmymethod.org, or contact your local family planning clinic for more guidance.
- The medical staff should also provide contact information in case you have any questions or concerns after the procedure.
