In the rush to arrange for an abortion, many women don't have time to imagine how their lives will be affected after their procedure is done. It's difficult to find people who will openly talk about their abortion experiences, and much of the online information is merely clickbait for judgmental claptrap with an agenda.

Whether you've had an abortion or you're considering the procedure, take some time to learn about post-abortion issues some women and families face. Here are some tips to get you started:

Start with what and whom you know

Your family-planning clinic or abortion provider is the best source for up-to-date, factually sound information about the physical and emotional changes some women experience after undergoing an abortion. Clinic staff are happy to provide you with family-planning information and helpful guidance for post-abortion self-care. They may also be able to offer you some of the after-care supplies you need at no charge or for a reduced cost.

Always ask for additional literature or counseling if there are issues you don't fully understand. Your family-planning clinic is there to guide you through the process. They will refer you to helpful websites and books to help you heal and cope. They have knowledge about stores that carry low-cost after-care products and medications.

Prepare ahead of time if you can

When time and resources are available to do so, make yourself a nest with support items like feminine hygiene products, herbal teas, soft blankets, and empowering books. Have a playlist loaded with your favorite songs and a queue ready with your favorite movies. Have easy foods on hand to nourish yourself when you don't feel like cooking. Pick up some good-smelling products like lavender linen or room spray to soothe you while you rest.

If you have children you care for, arrange for help with them during your immediate post-recovery period if possible, and set up some enjoyable activities for them if you have the energy and means to do so. Any surgery or medical event involving one family member affects the entire family, so be prepared for confusion and questions. Ask your family-planning clinic staff for advice on how to talk to your loved ones about your experiences if you're unsure about how to have those conversations.

Support your unique timeline

No two women have the same abortion experiences. Not physically. Not emotionally. Your procedure, your reasons for having the procedure, your body, and your living situation are yours and yours alone.

Don't be surprised if you feel nothing except relief for a while. Don't be surprised if you break down in tears from seemingly trivial cues. One woman will have intense cramps, while another feels only as if she's on a mild period. If you do get worried over a symptom or emotion, consult your literature and put in a call to the family-planning clinic to ask for advice.

One serious after-care component to address is the judgment and drama associated with accessing your right to a safe and legal abortion. It's difficult to walk through angry protest lines and see the issue discussed by rich politicians on TV who have no clue about the real world.

Unlike them, you have a clue. You made the best choice you could make in your circumstances, and you will continue to make wise family planning choices. You will continue to educate yourself and care for your reproductive health to have the brightest future possible.

The best abortion after-care tip is: love yourself and be good to yourself and your loved ones.

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