Understanding the Duration of Surgical Abortion & Recovery Time
Gynaecology Centres Australia (GCA) is a leading private provider of surgical abortion services to women in NSW. We offer women of all ages, circumstances, and stages of life access to the gold standard of medical care in terms of legal first-trimester abortions (and some other women’s health services) in terms of safety, comfort, confidentiality, and compassionate support.
While medical abortion can be an option for some women before 9 weeks of pregnancy, Gynaecology Centres Australia performs surgical abortions only. Medical abortions are now readily available through many GP practices, hence we concentrate on the surgical termination procedures and administration of sedation for those procedures. Our doctors are specifically trained and highly skilled in surgical abortions and sedation.
Introduction to Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is a procedure performed to terminate a pregnancy. At Gynaecology Centres Australia, we provide surgical abortions to women at any time during the first trimester.
Having a surgical abortion in Australia is legal and, when performed by an experienced, properly trained proceduralist, it is statistically 11 times safer than natural childbirth.
How Long Does a Surgical Abortion Take?
You will have an initial consultation with your proceduralist (doctor) to discuss your options and the right decision for you. If you decide to proceed with an abortion, you will need to have an ultrasound to check the stage of the pregnancy. You will be given an appointment time to attend the clinic for the procedure comprehensive information will be provided at the clinic on side effects, possible complications, post-surgical care and expectations.
On the day of your procedure, expect to be in the clinic for around 2 hours.
Abortion with us is performed under IV (intra-venous) sedation. In addition to the proceduralist, another doctor (the sedationist) will be present throughout to administer intravenous sedative drugs via a cannula placed into a vein in your arm.
The abortion procedure itself takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.
You will spend one hour (on average) in recovery in the clinic before being allowed to be taken home by a support person. You should not be left alone for the rest of the day/night.
Note: A general anaesthetic is not required for surgical abortions, therefore these procedures may be performed in clinics (outside of hospitals). Patient risk is an important consideration, however, and a woman’s individual anaesthetic risk must be determined before the procedure. Factors that influence this include medical history, existing conditions, obesity, prior reaction to anaesthesia, and overall health. As such, some patients may be referred to a hospital to have their procedure if they are deemed to be at higher risk for sedation.
Recovery After Surgical Abortion: What to Expect
- No driving is allowed until the next day after the sedation .
- Bleeding and cramping are expected and these may worsen at around day 3-6 post-procedure, as the uterus contracts to return to its pre-pregnancy state. This heightened pain may last a day or two and extra analgesia may be required during this time. Using a heat pack can also help.
- You will be screened for STIs at the time of the procedure and these results are usually available within 2-3 days. You may be advised to take a course of antibiotics – take these as directed. Or it may be identified that you have a higher risk of bacterial vaginosis hence extra antibiotics will be prescribed on the day.
- You usually may be able to go back to work the next day, and resume most normal activities
- No tub baths for 2 days – showers are OK and recommended.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for one week, as this may increase bleeding and pain. Going for a gentle walk is allowed.
- No swimming or spa baths or sexual intercourse for 2 days
We provide our patients with comprehensive information so they are aware of and understand what to expect both during and after the procedure. Be guided by the information we give you. Call us if you have any questions or concerns.
FAQ
- Preparing for an Abortion
– Don’t eat, drink, smoke, or vape for 6 hours before the procedure.
You may drink water only for up to 2 hours before your appointment.
– Purchase sanitary pads to use during the recovery period (avoid using tampons or menstrual cups for at least 2 days).
– Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day/evening of the procedure. - How long will I bleed after an abortion?
Bleeding after an abortion is normal, expected, and can be variable. It may last from a few days to a few weeks and may occur irregularly up to the first menstrual period after the procedure (which usually occurs 4-6 weeks post-procedure).
If bleeding lasts a few weeks, it shouldn’t be heavier than a normal period. Discharge can continue for several weeks. - Can I use tampons after a surgical abortion?
Don’t use tampons (or place anything else) into the vagina for 2 days following an abortion. Instead, use sanitary pads/napkins or panty liners as needed. Don’t sleep with a tampon in. Use pads instead. - How long after abortion can you have intercourse?
Do not have intercourse (or place anything else into the vagina) for 2 days after your procedure. Intercourse is allowed after the full 2-days post-surgical period has passed, provided adequate protection is used to prevent another unplanned pregnancy. - How long after an abortion can you get pregnant?
You can potentially become pregnant again as soon as you have sexual intercourse – even before the next menstrual period at 4-6 weeks post-abortion. It’s important to use appropriate contraception to prevent another unplanned pregnancy. - I’m worried about my abortion recovery, when should I be concerned?
If there is anything that seems out of the ordinary or you are concerned in any way during the recovery period, please call us promptly.
You should see us, your GP, or a hospital emergency department immediately if you experience:
- Very heavy bleeding/passing large clots
- Severe cramping or abdominal/pelvic pain
- You develop a fever
Note that there are no future costs associated with any follow-up appointments with us after a surgical abortion in our clinic.
Gynaecology Centres Australia is committed to the provision of comprehensive care and support during the abortion process. From initial consultation to advice for the recovery period and providing reliable, effective contraceptive options and access where needed, our patient-focused care is unwavering.
For more personalised advice, information, and support, please reach out to us directly. We are here to help.
Need a Consultation? Contact Gynaecology Centres Australia Today
Any woman who finds herself in the position of needing an abortion must be able to do so as promptly as possible. With several clinics conveniently located in Greater Sydney, Newcastle, Gosford, Wollongong, and Queanbeyan, Gynaecology Centres Australia provides timely access to first-trimester surgical abortion services in a comfortable, safe, and compassionate environment. Our experienced, understanding,non-judgemental doctors and support staff are here to provide abortion and other women’s health services as needed, and you do not need a GP referral to attend our clinics.
Don’t delay – from professional advice and counselling to having a first-trimester abortion, we are here to help. Contact us online or call (02) 9585 9599 to book a consultation now.