After your abortion procedure, we can give you some antibiotics. The nurse will assess your need for additional protection against infection.
You may be given:
- Metronidazole: 2 tablets to take at the clinic; And
- Azithromycin: 4 tablets to take at home.
Sometimes, we can give you different antibiotics depending on which area of SS you are or if you have an allergy to the medications we use.
The four tablets of azithromycin (1 gram each) should all be taken at the same time at the night of their treatment. They can be taken one hour before a meal or 2 hours later. However, if you feel sick or unwell after treatment, you can leave it until the next day. It is advisable not to take antibiotics within an hour of bedtime.
Here are some common questions and answers about antibiotics:
WhatshouldI do if I forgotto take my antibiotics?
Take them the next morning or within 24 hours.
I’ve been sick aftertakingantibiotics; will Ihave to take them again?
Antibiotics are prescribed only as a precautionary measure. However, they also treat chlamydia. If you have tested positive for chlamydia, you should see your family doctor as soon as possible for more antibiotics. You should also be careful to follow subsequent care tips on how to minimize the risk of infection.
Can I breastfeed while taking the antibiotics I was prescribed?
We recommend that you do not breastfeed for 48 hours after taking the antibiotics Azithromycin and Metrodazole. If you can, we recommend that you remove some milk before attending the clinic to be seen until you can breastfeed again.
Read the health guide on how to extract and store breast milk
Can I drink alcohol while taking antibiotics?
You should not drink alcohol while taking your antibiotics or for 48 hours after finishing your course.
I have diarrhea and stomach cramps after takingthe antibiotics, is this normal?
Diarrhoea is a common side effect of azithromycin antibiotics and can last a couple of days.
Antibiotics don’t relieve my pain
Antibiotics will not relieve any pain you may be experiencing; you’ll need to take painkillers for this. You can take painkillers and antibiotics at the same time, and we can advise you on pain relievers that don’t interfere with any abortion medications.
If you have further questions about antibiotics or after-care after your abortion, call us at 934529930. Our lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.