This procedure takes about 10 minutes. Afterwards, the woman usually has some bleeding like a menstrual period. She will probably be able to go to school or work the next day, provided she doesn't have to do any heavy lifting or a lot of standing. An abortion done after 12 weeks of pregnancy may be different. Ask questions about anything you don't understand.
Many women feel cramps, like strong period cramps for a short time.
Medication is given if the cramps are uncomfortable. Abortions are very safe in Canada because they are legal and therefore done by trained doctors with safe, modern equipment. And, the earlier an abortion is done, the lower the chance of any complications. Women who have had an abortion done by a qualified doctor are just as likely to have a healthy baby in the future as other women. It is important to begin using birth control from the first time you have sex after an abortion.