Can You Get Pregnant After Abortion? Risks and Contraception

Q: Can You Get Pregnant After Abortion? Risks and Contraception

1. Will I get pregnant again? Answer： No, you will not get pregnant again. 2. If I am worried about getting pregnant again, will taking emergency contraception be effective? Answer： There is no need to take emergency contraception. 3. If I just took

Having sexual intercourse two days after an abortion?

On September 7th, I just underwent a medical abortion, and I started bleeding on September 8th.
On September 9th, I had unprotected sexual intercourse, but I am still bleeding.
Is it possible to become pregnant again under these circumstances? If I am concerned about becoming pregnant again, would taking emergency contraception be effective? After just taking RU-486, what would be the effects of taking contraceptive pills?

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/09

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Will I get pregnant again? Answer: No, you will not get pregnant again.

2.
If I am worried about getting pregnant again, will taking emergency contraception be effective? Answer: There is no need to take emergency contraception.

3.
If I just took RU-486 and then take birth control pills, what will be the effect? Answer: There is no need to take emergency contraception.

Reply Date: 2017/09/09

More Info

After undergoing a medical abortion, it is indeed possible to become pregnant shortly thereafter. The menstrual cycle can resume relatively quickly, and ovulation may occur as soon as two weeks after the procedure. Therefore, if you engage in unprotected sexual intercourse during this time, there is a risk of conception.

In your case, since you had a medical abortion on September 7 and had unprotected sex on September 9 while still experiencing bleeding, it is important to understand a few key points. First, the bleeding you are experiencing is likely a part of the abortion process and may not indicate that you are not fertile. Ovulation can occur even if you are still bleeding, so there is a possibility of becoming pregnant.

Regarding the use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") after a medical abortion, it is generally considered safe. However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any additional medications, especially after a recent abortion. The emergency contraceptive pill works primarily by preventing ovulation; if ovulation has already occurred, it may not be effective.
Taking emergency contraception shortly after a medical abortion should not have adverse effects, but it is essential to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation, including any potential interactions with medications you may have taken during the abortion process, such as mifepristone (RU-486).

In terms of risks, it is important to monitor your body and be aware of any unusual symptoms following the abortion. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection (such as fever or foul-smelling discharge), you should seek medical attention immediately.

Additionally, if you are considering future pregnancies, it is advisable to discuss your reproductive health with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand your fertility status post-abortion and provide guidance on when it might be safe to try to conceive again.
In summary, while it is possible to become pregnant shortly after a medical abortion, using emergency contraception can help reduce that risk if taken promptly. Always consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and to ensure your health and safety during this time.

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