Concerns About Pregnancy After Medical Abortion and Unprotected Sex - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Engaging in sexual intercourse one week after a medical abortion?


Hello, I used RU486 (mifepristone) for a medical abortion from September 1st.
I took the third dose of medication on September 3rd, and after about three hours, I experienced bleeding that lasted until September 7th.
Later, on September 14th, I had sexual intercourse and purchased emergency contraception (Plan B) about an hour afterward.
As of September 16th, I have not experienced any bleeding.
Could this indicate that I am pregnant again? I understand that pregnancy tests after a medical abortion may not be very accurate.
What should I do in this situation?

Ms. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/16

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


1.
For pregnancy concerns, please perform a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.
2.
The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various psychological and physiological factors.
If your period is more than two months late, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist for examination and evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/09/16

More Info


It sounds like you have a lot of concerns regarding your recent experiences with medical abortion and unprotected sex. Let's break down your situation and address your questions step by step.

First, it's important to understand that after a medical abortion using RU486, it is possible for your body to take some time to return to its normal hormonal cycle. The bleeding you experienced from September 3 to September 7 is a common response to the medication, as it helps to expel the pregnancy tissue. After a medical abortion, it can take a few weeks for your menstrual cycle to regulate, and during this time, ovulation may still occur.

You mentioned having unprotected sex on September 14, which is about a week after your bleeding stopped. If you ovulated shortly after your abortion, there is a possibility that you could become pregnant again. The emergency contraceptive pill (often referred to as the "morning-after pill") that you took shortly after having unprotected sex is designed to prevent pregnancy. However, it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, although some types can be effective up to 5 days later. Since you took it about an hour after the sexual encounter, you maximized your chances of preventing a new pregnancy.

As for your concern about whether you might be pregnant again, it is indeed possible, but the timing of your next menstrual period will be a key indicator. Since you mentioned that you have not experienced any bleeding by September 16, it could be too early to tell if you are pregnant again. Home pregnancy tests can be taken about a week after a missed period for the most accurate results. However, keep in mind that after a medical abortion, your hormone levels may still be adjusting, which can affect the accuracy of early pregnancy tests.

If you are feeling anxious about the possibility of being pregnant again, it may be helpful to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to check for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than a home urine test and can provide you with a definitive answer. Additionally, they can offer guidance on what to expect after a medical abortion and how to manage your reproductive health moving forward.

Regarding your concerns about future pregnancies and fertility, it is important to know that a medical abortion, when performed correctly and under medical supervision, typically does not have long-term effects on fertility. Most women are able to conceive again without issues after a medical abortion. However, if you have ongoing concerns about your reproductive health or if you experience any unusual symptoms (such as severe pain or prolonged bleeding), it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while there is a possibility of becoming pregnant again after your recent experiences, taking the emergency contraceptive pill shortly after unprotected sex was a proactive step. Monitor your body for signs of your next period, and consider taking a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. Consulting with a healthcare provider can provide you with clarity and peace of mind regarding your reproductive health.

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