Deciding to have an abortion can be a stressful and emotional experience, so it's important to make sure you are prepared as much as possible beforehand. Here are a few things you can do to make the abortion process less painful overall:
Visit the Doctor Beforehand
One of the most important things you can do to prepare yourself for your abortion is meet with the doctor who will be performing the operation well beforehand. If possible, schedule a consultation appointment a couple of weeks before your planned abortion so you have time to use the information you learn at the consultation while you prep. During the consultation at a medical abortion clinic, you can expect to learn:
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How the abortion procedure works overall.Having an
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What to expect directly before, during, and after the procedure.
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How to prepare your body in the days leading up to the procedure.
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How to assist your body in the healing process after the procedure.
To help ensure that nothing of importance to you is left out of the conversation, sit down and make a long list of all the questions and concerns you have about the abortion procedure and use the list as a meeting outlined during your consultation.
Make a Postpartum Plan
After you understand the abortion procedure and what to expect right before, during, and afterward, its a good idea to spend some time crafting a postpartum plan you can use while recovering and moving on with your life. Consider taking some time off of work for a week or two after the procedure so you can spend time in nature, at the spa, with friends and family – this should keep your mind off the negative thoughts and help you maintain a positive frame of mind about your decision.
Ask friends and family members to help you with chores and errands for a few days after the procedure so you have time to rest and regain your full strength. And give yourself extra peace of mind by scheduling a doctor's check-up for a couple weeks out to make sure that your health is in good shape.
Get Professional Support
It's also crucial to get some professional support if you're having a hard time coming to terms with your decision to have an abortion. Talking with a professional in the weeks leading up to and after the abortion can help you recognize the root of your feelings so you can work through them and learn new coping mechanisms that will help you move forward in a positive manner as time goes on. And professional support offers a confidential outlet for your feelings and emotions so nobody else has to know about them if you don't want them to.
