Q2. Does abortion hurt?

A2. You will experience bleeding and abdominal cramps during an abortion. This is very similar to the cramps you get during a menstrual period and can be eased by taking painkillers.

There is no pain before abortion as you will be given a local or general anaesthetic.

This bleeding and cramping occurs after both the medical and surgical abortion. Wear sanitary towels during this time and take painkillers until this has stopped. This bleeding usually lasts for two to four weeks.

Find out more in our methods of abortion section.

FAQS Index:

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Abortion FAQs

1. My pregnancy is unplanned, should I consider an abortion?
2. Does abortion hurt?
3. Why is abortion such a controversial issue?
4. I am thinking about having an abortion; what do I need to consider?
5. Is there more than one type of abortion?
6. I am under 16; do I have to get my parents permission to have an abortion?
7. How much does an abortion cost?
8. What reasons do women give for having an abortion?
9. Should I have my abortion on the NHS or at a private clinic?
10. Does counselling help?

12. How do I arrange an abortion on the NHS?
13. How do I arrange an abortion at a private clinic?
14. What is a ‘late term abortion?’
15. How safe is an abortion?
16. Will having an abortion make me infertile?
17. What happens at the initial consultation?
18. What are the risks of an abortion?
19. What can I expect after my abortion?
20. What is the aftercare?
21. Will I be able to have a baby some point in the future even though I have had an abortion?

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