Post-Abortion Concerns: Pregnancy Risks and Recovery Questions

Issues After Induced Abortion

I would like to ask if having intercourse within a week after a surgical abortion on May 4 (although not internally) could lead to pregnancy.
What is the likelihood of becoming pregnant? On May 13, I went to the obstetrics and gynecology department for an ultrasound, but nothing was seen.
When I took a pregnancy test, it indicated that I was pregnant.
Is it accurate to test for pregnancy in such a short time frame? Does this mean I am definitely pregnant? Is it normal not to have any lochia after the abortion on May 4? On May 14, I suddenly experienced abdominal cramps in the early morning, and I had a slight feeling of nausea in the morning.
Is this normal?

Beiai de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/14

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on the symptoms you described, I recommend that you consult the original surgeon to determine whether it is a continuation of the original pregnancy or a new one.
This will help in deciding the appropriate treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2016/05/14

More Info

After undergoing an abortion on May 4th, it’s understandable to have concerns regarding the potential for pregnancy, recovery, and any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Can you get pregnant shortly after an abortion?
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant shortly after an abortion. Ovulation can occur as soon as two weeks after the procedure, which means if you have unprotected intercourse, there is a chance of conception. The likelihood of becoming pregnant depends on various factors, including your menstrual cycle and when you ovulate. Since you mentioned having intercourse within a week post-abortion, it is indeed possible that you could conceive.

2. Is it accurate to take a pregnancy test so soon after an abortion?
Pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. After an abortion, hCG levels can take some time to return to normal. Typically, it can take several weeks for hCG levels to drop to zero, depending on how far along you were in your pregnancy. Therefore, if you took a pregnancy test shortly after your abortion and it indicated a positive result, it may not necessarily mean you are pregnant again; it could be residual hCG from your previous pregnancy. For the most accurate results, it’s advisable to wait at least two weeks after the abortion to take a pregnancy test.

3. Is it normal not to have any discharge (lochia) after the abortion?
Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth or an abortion, consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. It is common to experience some lochia after an abortion, but the amount and duration can vary significantly among individuals. Some women may have very light discharge, while others may have heavier bleeding. If you are not experiencing any discharge at all, it may not be a cause for concern, but it’s essential to monitor for any signs of complications, such as fever or severe pain.

4. What about the abdominal pain and nausea you experienced?
Experiencing some abdominal discomfort or cramping after an abortion can be normal as your body adjusts and heals. However, if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as heavy bleeding, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, it could indicate a complication, such as an infection or retained tissue. Nausea can also occur due to hormonal changes or as a side effect of the procedure. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you have any concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while it is possible to conceive shortly after an abortion, the accuracy of pregnancy tests taken soon after the procedure may be questionable due to residual hCG levels. The absence of lochia can be normal, but any severe or unusual symptoms should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have concerns.

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