Post-Abortion Symptoms: Managing Dizziness and Nausea After Procedure

Symptoms after an abortion?

Hello Doctor: My girlfriend and I went to the clinic for a medical abortion on April 7.
After that, she experienced symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vaginal bleeding.
I understand that this is normal.
During the days following the procedure, she did not take any supplements, but on the morning of April 15, she felt very dizzy.
I took her to the emergency room, where the doctor said that taking supplements could slow down her recovery.
The doctor prescribed medication for bleeding and pain relief, and gave her an IV before sending us home.
However, as of April 17, my girlfriend's dizziness has not improved; she still feels dizzy and experiences nausea while eating.
I would like to ask the doctor what we should eat and how we can alleviate the dizziness to help her recover her health quickly.
Thank you, Doctor.

Lai Xiaodi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On April 7, my girlfriend underwent an abortion at a clinic.
After the procedure, she experienced symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vaginal bleeding.
I understand that these symptoms are normal.
During the recovery period, she did not take any supplements.
However, on the morning of April 15, she felt extremely dizzy, so I took her to the emergency room.
The doctor mentioned that taking supplements could slow down her recovery.
Afterward, the doctor prescribed medication for bleeding and pain relief, and she received an IV drip before we were sent home.
As of April 17, my girlfriend's dizziness has not improved; she still feels dizzy and experiences nausea while eating.
I would like to ask what we should eat and how we can alleviate her dizziness to help her recover her health quickly.

Answer: It is best to visit a family medicine clinic for a thorough examination (blood tests, urine tests, ECG, X-rays, etc.).
If everything is normal, we can then discuss dietary recommendations and how to alleviate her dizziness.

Reply Date: 2017/04/17

More Info

Post-abortion symptoms can vary significantly among individuals, and it’s not uncommon for women to experience dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms after undergoing a procedure like an abortion. Your girlfriend's symptoms of dizziness, nausea, and bleeding are indeed common post-operative effects, but the persistence of these symptoms, especially the severe dizziness and nausea, warrants further attention.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that after an abortion, the body undergoes significant hormonal and physical changes. The hormonal fluctuations can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and nausea. Additionally, if there was any significant blood loss during the procedure, it could lead to anemia, which is a common cause of dizziness. The bleeding you mentioned could also be a factor, as prolonged bleeding can contribute to feelings of weakness and lightheadedness.

Since your girlfriend has been experiencing these symptoms for an extended period, it is crucial to ensure that she is adequately hydrated and nourished. Dehydration can exacerbate dizziness and nausea, so encouraging her to drink plenty of fluids is essential. Clear fluids like water, herbal teas, or electrolyte solutions can be beneficial. Eating small, frequent meals that are easy to digest, such as crackers, toast, or bananas, may help alleviate nausea.

Regarding the medications prescribed by the doctor, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully. If she was given medications for pain and to help with bleeding, ensure she takes them as directed. If the dizziness persists despite following medical advice, it may be necessary to revisit the healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may want to conduct blood tests to check for anemia or other underlying issues that could be contributing to her symptoms.

In terms of dietary recommendations, there are no specific foods that will directly stop dizziness, but a balanced diet rich in iron (to combat potential anemia) and vitamins can support recovery. Foods such as leafy greens, red meat, beans, and fortified cereals can be beneficial. Additionally, vitamin C-rich foods (like oranges or strawberries) can help enhance iron absorption.

If your girlfriend's symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention again. Persistent dizziness and nausea can sometimes indicate complications such as infection or retained products of conception, which may require further medical intervention.

In summary, while some post-abortion symptoms are normal, the persistence of severe dizziness and nausea should be taken seriously. Ensure she stays hydrated, eats light meals, and follows up with her healthcare provider if symptoms continue. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially after a medical procedure.

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