Can You Get Pregnant After Using RU486? Risks and Options - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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RU486 issue


If you took RU486 on January 7 and January 9, and stopped bleeding around January 19, then had a condom break during intercourse on January 26, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant.
Since you had unprotected intercourse after the bleeding stopped, it is advisable to consider taking emergency contraception.
It is best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to discuss your options.

Yiwun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/27

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


After taking RU486 on January 7 and January 9, bleeding stopped around January 19.
On January 26, during intercourse, the condom broke.
Is there a possibility of becoming pregnant, and is it necessary to take emergency contraception? Answer: It is unlikely to become pregnant, and there is no need to take emergency contraception.

Reply Date: 2019/01/27

More Info


RU486, also known as mifepristone, is primarily used for medical abortion within the first ten weeks of pregnancy. It works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. After taking RU486, it is crucial to understand the implications regarding future pregnancies and the risks involved.

In your case, since you took RU486 on January 7 and 9, and experienced bleeding that stopped around January 19, it is important to note that the bleeding is typically a sign that the medication is working to terminate the pregnancy. If you had unprotected intercourse on January 26, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant again, depending on your ovulation cycle.

After using RU486, your body may take some time to return to its normal hormonal balance. Ovulation can occur as soon as two weeks after taking the medication, which means that if you had unprotected sex during your fertile window, there is a chance of conception. If you are concerned about the possibility of becoming pregnant again, taking emergency contraception (commonly referred to as the "morning-after pill") is an option. Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be taken up to 5 days after.

Regarding the risks of getting pregnant after using RU486, it is generally considered safe to conceive after a medical abortion, but it is advisable to wait for at least one menstrual cycle before trying to conceive again. This allows your body to recover and ensures that you have a clearer understanding of your menstrual cycle, which can help in planning future pregnancies.

If you do become pregnant after using RU486, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. There are concerns about the potential risks associated with pregnancies that occur shortly after a medical abortion. Some studies suggest that there may be an increased risk of complications, such as miscarriage or preterm birth, but many women go on to have healthy pregnancies after a medical abortion.

In summary, while it is possible to become pregnant after using RU486, it is essential to consider your timing and the potential need for emergency contraception if you have unprotected sex shortly after the medication. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding your reproductive health and future pregnancies. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and medical history, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

Similar Q&A

Does Frequent Use of RU486 Affect Future Fertility?

Having taken RU486 multiple times in the past, could this lead to difficulties in becoming pregnant in the future? I asked the doctor who prescribed the medication at the time, and he said it wouldn't cause any issues, but I still feel concerned as I am not yet married.


Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Each abortion is a physical and psychological trauma; it is impossible to say that it leaves no trace. 2. However, what is done is done, and what is to come can be pursued; since you are currently unmarried, you should try to avoid premarital sexual intercourse for the ...

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Understanding RU486: Pregnancy Risks and Considerations After Use

Hello doctor: I would like to ask, after taking RU486 in November 2004, how long will it take before I can get pregnant? If I do not get my period in January 2005 (assuming I am pregnant), what problems could this cause? If I am indeed pregnant, will the child be able to be born?...


Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The use of RU486 is only effective for the current pregnancy. If you confirm a pregnancy in January, you should be mindful of uterine contractions to avoid miscarriage.

[Read More] Understanding RU486: Pregnancy Risks and Considerations After Use


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I would like to ask if having unprotected intercourse on the same day after taking the first dose of the medication will have any effects. Is there a possibility of becoming pregnant again?


Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear Fei Fei, Since you were still in a state of pregnancy at the time of receiving the first dose, there is no possibility of becoming pregnant again immediately. However, if your partner does not use condoms or any form of contraception after the medication-induced abortion is...

[Read More] Effects of Intercourse After Taking RU486: What You Need to Know


Understanding RU486: Risks of Pregnancy After Use

I would like to ask the doctor if I took RU486 on May 7 and May 9, and had unprotected intercourse during that period, as well as on May 10 without protection. I would like to know if there is still a possibility of pregnancy.


Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
After taking the abortion medication, you should return for a follow-up appointment within 1 to 2 weeks. Please consult your attending physician at that time. Thank you.

[Read More] Understanding RU486: Risks of Pregnancy After Use


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