Abortion
February 26, 2025

What to Eat After a Medication Abortion (UK Guide)

Recovering from a medication abortion? Learn what to eat after taking abortion pills, how to support your body with the right nutrition, and where to get UK-based aftercare.

Written by
Dr. Aka (GMC Number: 4275695), Medical Director at Top at Home
Reviewed by
Dr. Ohizua (GMC Number: 4446275), Consultant Gynaecologist at Top at Home
What to Eat After a Medication Abortion (UK Guide)

Recovering After a Medication Abortion

Medication abortion is a safe and effective method for ending an early pregnancy using prescribed tablets, typically mifepristone followed by misoprostol. At Top at Home, we provide confidential medication abortion services throughout the UK , allowing women to access care from the comfort and privacy of their own home.

As your body naturally completes the abortion process, taking care of your physical health is important. Nutrition plays a key role in supporting your body's recovery, replenishing essential nutrients, and promoting emotional wellbeing.

This guide outlines the best foods and practices to support your recovery after a medication abortion.

Why Nutrition Matters After a Medication Abortion

Following a medication abortion, your body may experience:

  • Blood loss, leading to reduced iron levels
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Temporary tiredness or fatigue

Eating nutrient-dense foods helps to:

  • Replenish blood supply
  • Support hormone regulation
  • Strengthen your immune system
  • Aid tissue repair and overall healing

At Top at Home, we recommend a balanced, nourishing diet to help you recover comfortably and quickly.

Nutrient-Rich Foods to Support Recovery

Iron-Rich Foods: Blood loss during the abortion process can reduce your iron levels. Iron is essential for maintaining energy and preventing anaemia.

These foods are readily available in UK supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and ASDA. If you’re following a vegetarian or halal diet, British-sourced lentils and chickpeas are a great alternative.

Include in your meals:

  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
  • Lean red meat (British beef, lamb)
  • Legumes (lentils, chickpeas)
  • Iron-fortified cereals
  • Dried fruits (apricots, raisins)

Vitamin C for Iron Absorption

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption and boosts the immune system.

These fruits are widely available across the UK, frozen berries from Co-op or M&S are a budget-friendly option year-round.

Great sources include:

  • Oranges, strawberries, kiwis
  • Bell peppers
  • Tomatoes

Fibre-Rich Foods for Hormonal Balance

Fibre supports digestion and helps your body eliminate excess hormones naturally.

Good choices are:

  • Wholegrains (brown rice, oats)
  • Fruits (apples, pears, berries)
  • Vegetables (broccoli, carrots)
  • Nuts and seeds

Healthy Fats for Hormone Support

Healthy fats are important for restoring hormonal balance.

Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel can be found fresh or tinned in UK supermarkets. Always check NHS guidance if you're pregnant or breastfeeding before increasing oily fish intake.

Incorporate:

  • Avocados
  • Olive oil
  • Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • Oily fish (salmon, mackerel)

Protein for Tissue Repair  

Protein supports tissue repair and strengthens the body after abortion.

Recommended sources:

  • Poultry (chicken, turkey)
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Plant-based proteins (tofu, beans)

Staying Hydrated After a Medication Abortion

Hydration is crucial to help your body flush out toxins and maintain energy levels.

UK tap water is clean and safe to drink. You can also explore decaf herbal teas available from Boots, Holland & Barrett, or your local pharmacy.

Aim for:

  • 8–10 glasses of water daily
  • Herbal teas such as ginger, peppermint, or raspberry leaf
  • Coconut water for added electrolytes

Foods and Drinks to Limit During Recovery

To support your healing, it's best to limit:

  • Caffeinated drinks: High caffeine intake can affect hormone balance.
  • Alcohol: May interfere with recovery.
  • Highly processed foods: These can cause inflammation.
  • Sugary foods and drinks: To avoid energy crashes and maintain blood sugar levels.

Looking After Your Emotional and Physical Wellbeing

Recovery involves more than physical healing. Emotional self-care is equally important.

We recommend:

  • Prioritising rest and sleep
  • Gentle movement such as walking or yoga
  • Seeking emotional support from loved ones or professional counselling if needed

If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or any symptoms that concern you, seek medical advice promptly. Top at Home offers confidential aftercare consultations for your peace of mind.

Supporting Your Recovery with Top at Home

Top at Home are a UK-registered provider based in London and Croydon, with services available nationwide to eligible residents aged 16+ and under 10 weeks pregnant.

If you would like advice about recovery, symptoms, or emotional support following a medication abortion, our clinical team is available via WhatsApp, phone, or video consultation, 7 days a week.

Book a follow-up consultation here

Your health, privacy, and wellbeing remain our top priorities.

Further Reading:

Top at Home is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and proudly provides confidential, safe medication abortion services throughout the UK.

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