Post-Abortion Bleeding and Pregnancy Risks: A Guide

Light bleeding after sexual intercourse following an abortion?

On November 2nd, I took RU486, and on November 4th, I took prostaglandins, after which I started bleeding.
I don't remember the follow-up appointment date, but I confirmed that the doctor said after the ultrasound examination that "everything is clear." On December 7th, it was confirmed that everything was clear.
On December 16th, I had sexual intercourse once with a condom and once without a condom with external ejaculation.
On December 19th, I had my last sexual intercourse, which was unprotected with internal ejaculation.
On December 24th, I experienced slight bleeding, but it stopped afterward.
I understand there is still a possibility of pregnancy, but I would like to ask how high the likelihood of pregnancy is.
If it is low, what could be the reason for the bleeding? If I am 17 years old, can I go to a gynecologist to obtain long-term contraceptive pills? Is it suitable for someone with dysmenorrhea to take contraceptive pills? Thank you for your thoughtful response, doctor.

Tiānkōng Lán, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/24

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you are unsure about being pregnant, you may consider taking emergency contraception.
There was slight bleeding on December 24, which could possibly be false ovulatory bleeding.
It is always best to use preventive measures beforehand, as you cannot rely on the safe period.
You can visit a gynecologist to obtain long-term contraceptive pills.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/12/24

More Info

Understanding post-abortion bleeding and the associated risks of subsequent pregnancies is crucial for anyone who has undergone a medical abortion. In your case, you have detailed a timeline of events following your use of RU486 (mifepristone) and misoprostol for a medical abortion, which is a common method used to terminate early pregnancies.
After taking these medications, it is typical to experience bleeding as the body expels the pregnancy tissue. The timeline you provided indicates that you had a follow-up ultrasound that confirmed the abortion was complete, which is a positive sign that the procedure was successful. The bleeding you experienced on December 24 could be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes, the body’s adjustment post-abortion, or even the onset of a new menstrual cycle.
Regarding your question about the likelihood of becoming pregnant after your abortion, it is important to note that fertility can return quite quickly following an abortion. Many women can ovulate as soon as two weeks after the procedure, which means that if you had unprotected intercourse, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant. The risk of pregnancy is influenced by factors such as the timing of ovulation and the effectiveness of any contraceptive methods used.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test to confirm your status. If you are not pregnant and are looking to prevent future pregnancies, discussing long-term contraceptive options with a healthcare provider is a prudent step.

As for your inquiry about obtaining long-term contraceptive methods at the age of 17, in the United States, minors can access reproductive health services, including birth control, without parental consent in many states. However, the specific regulations can vary by state, so it would be beneficial to check local laws or consult with a healthcare provider.
Regarding your question about taking birth control pills if you have dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps), many healthcare providers actually prescribe hormonal contraceptives as a treatment for dysmenorrhea. Birth control pills can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. However, it is essential to discuss your medical history and any concerns with a healthcare provider to determine the best contraceptive method for your specific situation.

In summary, while there is a possibility of becoming pregnant after your abortion, the likelihood depends on various factors, including the timing of ovulation and contraceptive use. If you are considering long-term birth control, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can guide you based on your health needs and preferences. Additionally, if you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your reproductive health, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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