When Can I Drink Alcohol After an Abortion?
There is no official rule against alcohol after an abortion: the FDA label for the abortion pills (mifepristone with misoprostol) and the NHS recovery guidance do not mention it. Two things still matter: the NIAAA warns that pain relievers with alcohol can cause stomach bleeding and, with acetaminophen, liver damage; and drinking can make it harder to notice warning signs such as heavy bleeding or fever. Follow your provider's instructions.
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Is there a rule about alcohol after an abortion?
No official rule. The FDA prescribing information and Medication Guide for mifepristone (Mifeprex), used with misoprostol for medical abortion, do not mention alcohol, and neither does the NHS guidance on recovery after an abortion. Your own provider’s instructions come first.
What to think about before drinking
- Pain relief. The NHS suggests painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol (acetaminophen) for pain. The NIAAA warns that these with alcohol can cause stomach upset, bleeding and ulcers, and, for acetaminophen, liver damage.
- Anaesthetic or sedation. After a procedure with an anaesthetic, the NHS advises having someone nearby in case you feel drowsy. Do not add alcohol on that day.
- Noticing warning signs. Bleeding is expected, but some signs need a provider quickly (below); stay clear-headed enough to notice them.
Warning signs: contact your provider (FDA Medication Guide)
- Heavy bleeding: soaking through two thick full-size sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours, or if you are concerned about heavy bleeding.
- Abdominal pain or “feeling sick” (weakness, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea, with or without fever) more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol.
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that lasts more than 4 hours. If you cannot reach your provider, go to the nearest emergency room.
The NHS also advises getting help for pain or bleeding that does not get better within a few days, still feeling pregnant after about a week, or signs of infection. Bleeding can last for several weeks.
Other recovery points (NHS)
- You can shower or bath as usual.
- You can get pregnant straight after an abortion, so use contraception if you do not want to.
People also ask
Can I drink alcohol after taking misoprostol or mifepristone?
Their FDA label does not mention alcohol. Avoid mixing alcohol with pain relievers (NIAAA) and watch for warning signs such as heavy bleeding or fever.
How long after an abortion can you drink alcohol?
There is no official waiting time; follow your provider's advice, and do not drink on a day you had an anaesthetic.
What bleeding is too much after an abortion?
Soaking through two thick full-size pads per hour for two hours in a row; contact your provider right away (FDA Medication Guide).
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