Can You Get Pregnant During a Medication Abortion Recovery?

Is it possible to get pregnant during the bleeding period after a medical abortion?

Hello, I found out I was pregnant for seven weeks on October 2nd, but since I currently do not plan to have a child, I underwent a medical abortion on October 2nd.
After a follow-up ultrasound, the doctor confirmed that the gestational sac had been expelled.
On October 7th, I was still experiencing bleeding and had unprotected sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, after which I continued to pass blood clots.
Is there a possibility of becoming pregnant again? During the miscarriage recovery period, I have been drinking herbal soup.
Can I take emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy?

Chun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low, so you probably don't need to take emergency contraception.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/10/07

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant during the recovery period following a medication abortion, it's important to understand the biological and medical aspects involved.
After a medication abortion, which typically involves taking two different medications (mifepristone followed by misoprostol), the body undergoes a process of expelling the pregnancy tissue. This process can take several days to weeks, and during this time, it is common to experience bleeding, which can vary in intensity. The bleeding is often similar to a heavy menstrual period and may include blood clots.
In your case, since you mentioned that you had a confirmed ultrasound on October 7 that showed the pregnancy tissue had been expelled, it indicates that the abortion process was successful. However, it is crucial to note that ovulation can occur relatively soon after a miscarriage or abortion. For many women, ovulation can happen as early as two weeks after the procedure, which means that it is indeed possible to conceive again shortly after a medication abortion, even if you are still experiencing bleeding.

Regarding your question about having unprotected intercourse during this time, it is essential to consider that while you may still be experiencing bleeding, the risk of becoming pregnant remains. If you are not planning to conceive, it is advisable to use contraception.
You mentioned taking "生化湯" (a traditional Chinese herbal remedy) during this time. While herbal remedies can be beneficial for some, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider regarding their safety and efficacy, especially in the context of post-abortion recovery.
As for taking emergency contraception (the "事後避孕藥") after unprotected intercourse, it is generally safe to use. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex and can be effective if taken within a specific timeframe after intercourse. However, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that it is appropriate for your situation, especially considering your recent abortion and any ongoing bleeding.

In summary, while it is possible to conceive shortly after a medication abortion, using contraception is advisable if you wish to avoid pregnancy. If you have concerns about your recovery, the use of herbal remedies, or the appropriateness of emergency contraception, please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs and circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Abortion Pills and Having Sex?

Hello, I took oral abortion medication at the clinic on the 9th, and I had intercourse on the 17th. Is it possible that I could become pregnant?

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, the chances of pregnancy are not high. However, I recommend that you continue to take adequate contraceptive measures to protect your body. Thank you! Wishing you safety and health. Dr. Chang

Can You Get Pregnant After a Medical Abortion? Understanding Risks

If pregnancy was confirmed on March 14 at 4 weeks, and the first dose of medication for abortion was taken on March 14, followed by the second dose of uterine contraction medication on March 16, and an ultrasound on March 21 confirmed no embryo was present, there is a possibility...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, there is still a chance. It is recommended to take emergency contraception. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant After Medication Abortion and Intercourse?

If you took the second dose of the abortion medication on May 29 and had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation inside on June 23, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant. If you are still experiencing light bleeding, taking emergency contraception may still be effective, b...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you did not use complete contraception, it is advisable to take emergency contraceptive pills just in case. For regular birth control pills, you should wait for your period to start and then begin taking them on the fifth day. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Abortion Pills? Key Insights

My girlfriend took abortion pills on August 19, and then on August 23, during a follow-up ultrasound, the doctor said that the pregnancy had passed. By August 25, she had stopped bleeding. We had intercourse on August 26, and I used a condom throughout, which did not break during...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. It is advisable to monitor the situation for now. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.