Overview Abortion is a common outpatient procedure with more than 1 million abortions performed annually. The Guttmacher Institute reports that if current abortion rates continue, it is estimated that 35 percent of all women of reproductive age will have had an abortion by the time they reach the age of 45. Several side effects following abortion are common, but short-lived. Cramping and Pain Abdominal pain and cramping similar to menstrual cramps is common after an abortion, with symptoms diminishing within the first week following the procedure. The Feminist Women's Health Center explains that uterine massage can help decrease cramping by stimulating the uterus to contract back to its pre-pregnancy size. This can be done by using the palm of the hand to push firmly on the abdomen while rubbing in a downward motion, from the navel to the pubic hair line. Vaginal Bleeding Vaginal bleeding similar to that of a menstrual cycle can occur for up to six weeks after an abortion. This bleeding ranges from mild spotting to small clots. Bleeding is heavier after a medical abortion, which uses medications to expel uterine contents, compared to a surgical abortion, in which the uterine contents are suctioned out through the cervix with a surgical vacuum. Pregnancy Symptoms Upon pregnancy termination, the hormones required to sustain pregnancy begin to diminish immediately. Symptoms of pregnancy include nausea and vomiting, frequent urination, breast tenderness and fatigue. Abortion aftercare information from the Feminist Women's Health Center indicates that pregnancy symptoms subside within one week following an abortion. Future Pregnancy Pregnancy can occur at any time after an abortion and intercourse should be avoided for one to two weeks following the procedure until a medical doctor has completed a follow up medical exam. According to the US National Abortion Federation, birth control should be used following an abortion if pregnancy is not desired. Emotional Issues Having an abortion can create a mixture of emotions including sadness, loss, relief, happiness and optimism toward the future. Anti-choice groups claim that abortion causes depression; however, according to the National Abortion Federation, the greatest predictor of a woman's emotional stability after an abortion is her emotional stability prior to the pregnancy and abortion. Difficulty obtaining an abortion, feeling alone during the process, taking time off work, finding a doctor and the expense of the procedure can create stress and sadness even though ultimately the woman feels she made a positive choice.