Pregnancy Risks After Abortion: Your Questions Answered

Abortion

Hello everyone, I had an abortion between March 22-23, and I had intercourse for two consecutive days afterward, but it was all external ejaculation.
What is the likelihood of getting pregnant under these circumstances? I've heard of cases where someone got pregnant immediately after an abortion—can anyone share their experiences? My period hasn't arrived yet; is there a possibility of pregnancy? On April 2, my doctor said my uterus had completely returned to normal.
However, for the past two weeks since having intercourse, I've been experiencing morning nausea, poor mental health, and a lack of appetite, sometimes feeling nauseous after eating.
Given my situation, what is the likelihood of pregnancy?

Ping, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/06

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you are not likely to be pregnant, it is best to take preventive measures beforehand, even after an abortion.
If your period is more than one week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/04/06

More Info

After undergoing an abortion, many women have questions about the risks of subsequent pregnancies, especially regarding the likelihood of becoming pregnant soon after the procedure. In your case, you mentioned that you had an abortion on March 22-23 and engaged in sexual intercourse shortly thereafter, using withdrawal as a method of contraception. You are understandably concerned about the possibility of becoming pregnant again and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, it is important to note that the risk of pregnancy immediately following an abortion can be significant. The menstrual cycle can resume relatively quickly after an abortion, often within a few weeks. Ovulation can occur as soon as two weeks after the procedure, which means that if you had unprotected intercourse during this time, there is a possibility of conception. Even with withdrawal, there is still a risk of pregnancy, as pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm.

Regarding your symptoms of nausea, fatigue, and changes in appetite, these could potentially indicate early pregnancy, especially if they are occurring around the time you would expect to ovulate and conceive. However, they could also be attributed to hormonal changes following the abortion or even stress and anxiety related to the situation. It is not uncommon for women to experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms after an abortion, which can complicate the interpretation of any new symptoms.

To determine whether you are pregnant, the most reliable method is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. If you take a test and it is positive, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

In terms of future pregnancies, it is generally recommended to wait until you have had at least one normal menstrual cycle before trying to conceive again. This allows your body to heal and can help ensure a healthier pregnancy. However, many women do go on to have healthy pregnancies shortly after an abortion, and individual circumstances can vary widely.

If you are considering becoming pregnant again soon, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. Additionally, if you have any concerns about your reproductive health or the possibility of complications from the abortion, your provider can help address these issues.

In summary, while there is a possibility of becoming pregnant shortly after an abortion, the symptoms you are experiencing could be due to various factors. Taking a home pregnancy test and consulting with your healthcare provider will provide clarity and help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health moving forward.

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