Can You Get Pregnant After Medical Abortion and Unprotected Sex?

Is it possible to become pregnant after having sexual intercourse 14 days post-medication abortion?

I would like to inquire about my situation.
I underwent a medical abortion on July 18, and during my follow-up appointment on July 22, the doctor confirmed that the pregnancy had been expelled.
On July 25, I stopped bleeding, so I took the first pack of medication.
However, that night I experienced a small amount of bright red bleeding, so I did not take any more.
The next day, the bleeding turned dark and has continued to be a small amount of dark discharge (enough to use a panty liner) until today.
On July 30, I had sexual intercourse.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy? Should I take emergency contraception?

Chung, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/01

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is not impossible.
I recommend that you still take post-coital contraceptive measures.
If your period is delayed, you should take a urine test to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2016/08/01

More Info

After a medical abortion, it is indeed possible to become pregnant if you engage in unprotected sex. The timeline you provided indicates that you had a medical abortion on July 18, followed by a follow-up appointment on July 22, where your doctor confirmed that the abortion was successful. You mentioned that you stopped bleeding by July 25, which is a common occurrence after a medical abortion, but you experienced some spotting afterward.

The menstrual cycle can resume quite quickly after a medical abortion, often within a few weeks. Ovulation can occur as early as two weeks after the procedure, which means that if you had unprotected sex on July 30, there is a possibility that you could become pregnant. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you ovulated shortly after your abortion, conception could occur.

Regarding the use of emergency contraception, it is generally recommended to take it as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse to reduce the risk of pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, but some types can be taken up to 120 hours afterward. If you are within that timeframe, it would be prudent to consider taking emergency contraception to prevent an unintended pregnancy.

It’s important to note that after a medical abortion, your body is still adjusting, and your menstrual cycle may take some time to normalize. Spotting or changes in bleeding patterns can occur as your body recovers. If you continue to experience unusual bleeding or have concerns about your health, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, yes, you can get pregnant after a medical abortion if you have unprotected sex. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, taking emergency contraception is a wise choice if you are within the appropriate timeframe. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your reproductive health following an abortion.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Medical Abortion and Unprotected Sex?

Is it possible to get pregnant if unprotected intercourse occurs one week after a medical abortion?

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Theoretically, it should not happen. 2. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.

Can You Get Pregnant After Medical Abortion and Intercourse?

I would like to ask if having sexual intercourse two weeks after a medical abortion, while experiencing some vaginal bleeding, and with a small amount of pre-ejaculate fluid entering the vagina, increases the likelihood of pregnancy. Thank you.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the probability should be low, but it's still important to stay vigilant. Wishing you good health.

Can I Get Pregnant After Recent Abortion and Unprotected Sex?

Hello doctor, I found out that my child's genes are not good, so I underwent a medical abortion on March 30. My menstrual period started on April 30 and ended on May 6. After that, I had unprotected sexual intercourse on May 7, May 10, and May 14. This morning, May 16, I too...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
On March 30, medication for abortion was taken. The menstrual period started on April 30 and ended on May 6. After that, unprotected sexual intercourse occurred on May 7, May 10, and May 14. This morning, May 16, a pregnancy test showed one line. Could I be pregnant? Answer: Chec...

Can You Get Pregnant After Medical Abortion? Key Considerations

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if having sexual intercourse after a medical abortion and before my next menstrual cycle could lead to pregnancy. The doctor mentioned that there are still small blood clots in the uterus. Will this have any impact?

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
After a miscarriage, the ovaries may resume ovulation after some time, which could lead to another pregnancy. This may occur before the next menstrual period. If there are small blood clots remaining in the uterus, they usually pass naturally; otherwise, medical treatment may be ...