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Laminaria Rod Insertion
Content reviewed by Dr. Laporte, Medical Director, Morgentaler Clinic
The Morgentaler Clinic in Montreal is committed to maintaining the highest standards of medical care.
Instructions to follow
You can eat and drink after inserting the rods.
You must fast for 3 hours before the appointment time for the day of the abortion.
Rest as much as possible. Avoid lifting heavy objects.
Do not remove the cotton tampon that the doctor has placed in the vagina. If it falls out, do not replace it with a regular tampon and mention this to the nurse when you return to the clinic.
Do not insert anything into the vagina. You can take a shower, but not a bath.
Do not drive until 24 hours after the abortion.
Medications to take
Gravol :
Take 1 tablet (50 mg) 45 minutes before taking antibiotics, even if you don't feel nauseous.
Antibiotics :
Take one dose in the morning (when you get home) and one dose in the evening, with a snack. Remember to take Gravol 45 minutes beforehand. Continue to take the 2 doses per day for the full prescribed duration.
lbuprofen (pain reliever) :
1 tablet (600 mg) every 6 hours, as needed for pain.
Oxycontin (Narcotic/pain reliever) :
1 tablet (10 mg) every 12 hours (on coming home and at bedtime) for pain relief.
Acetaminophen (pain reliever) :
Take 2 tablets of 500 mg every 6 hours if you have pain (this medication was not supplied in an envelope).
Normal effects
Cramps / stomach pains (may worsen within 4 hours of insertion)
Nausea / Vomiting
Light dizziness
Signs to be aware of
Bleeding or fluid discharge
Fever (Temperature over 38°C)
Very intense pain not relieved by prescribed medication
Contractions
Call the clinic 514-844-4844
If the clinic is closed and it's AN EMERGENCY: 514-594-2794
Last revised : June 2026