Medical Abortion: Risks and Concerns After RU486 Use

Medication abortion

Hello doctor, I took the first dose of RU486 on October 22 and the second dose on October 24.
I checked on October 25 and confirmed that the embryo had expelled, but on October 26, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with ejaculation outside and also lifted some heavy objects.
There was no bleeding from the genital area.

1.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy?
2.
Do I need to take emergency contraception?
3.
Can I continue taking the uterine contraction medication provided by the clinic?
4.
Do I need to undergo another examination?
5.
What impact does having intercourse less than a week after taking the second dose have on the uterus?

V, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/26

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On October 22, the first dose of RU486 was taken, followed by the second dose on October 24.
An examination on October 25 confirmed that the embryo had expelled.
However, on October 26, there was an accidental sexual encounter with external ejaculation, and some heavy lifting was done, but there was no vaginal bleeding.

1.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy?
Answer: No, there is no possibility of pregnancy.

2.
Is there a need to take emergency contraception?
Answer: No, it is not necessary.

3.
Can the uterine contraction medication provided by the clinic be continued?
Answer: Yes, it can be continued.

4.
Is there a need for re-examination?
Answer: No, re-examination is not necessary.

5.
What is the impact on the uterus if sexual intercourse occurs less than a week after taking the second dose?
Answer: There is no impact on the uterus.

Reply Date: 2019/10/26

More Info

When discussing the use of RU486 (Mifepristone) for medical abortion, it is essential to understand the associated risks, concerns, and the necessary follow-up care. RU486 is a medication approved for terminating early pregnancies, typically within the first 10 weeks. It is often used in conjunction with another medication, Misoprostol, to facilitate the abortion process.
1. Risk of Pregnancy After RU486 Use: After taking RU486, if a woman has unprotected intercourse, there is a potential risk of becoming pregnant again, especially if the abortion process is not fully completed. In your case, since you mentioned that the embryo had detached by the check-up on October 25, the likelihood of pregnancy from the intercourse on October 26 is low, but not impossible. The timing of ovulation plays a crucial role here; if ovulation occurs shortly after the abortion, there is a chance of conception.

2. Need for Emergency Contraception: If you are concerned about the possibility of becoming pregnant from the intercourse after taking RU486, it may be prudent to consider emergency contraception. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to assess the situation accurately and determine the best course of action.

3. Continuing Uterine Contraction Medication: If you have been prescribed uterine contraction medication following the use of RU486, it is generally safe to continue taking it as directed by your healthcare provider. These medications help ensure that the uterus expels any remaining tissue and can reduce the risk of complications such as infection or heavy bleeding.

4. Need for Follow-Up Examination: It is highly advisable to have a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider after taking RU486. This follow-up is crucial to confirm that the abortion was complete and to monitor for any complications. Signs that warrant immediate medical attention include excessive bleeding (soaking through two or more pads in an hour), severe abdominal pain, or fever.

5. Impact of Intercourse on the Uterus: Engaging in sexual intercourse shortly after taking RU486 can pose risks, particularly if the abortion process is not yet complete. The cervix may still be open, which can increase the risk of infection. Additionally, the uterus is in a sensitive state during this time, and any physical activity, including heavy lifting, may cause discomfort or complications. It is generally recommended to avoid sexual intercourse until you have been cleared by your healthcare provider.

In summary, while RU486 is a safe and effective method for medical abortion, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the process has been completed successfully and to address any concerns regarding potential pregnancy or complications. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any symptoms or concerns you may have during this time.

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