Pregnancy Risks After Abortion and Emergency Contraception

Approximately 20 days of induced abortion?

After my wife underwent a surgical abortion on January 28, she attended all follow-up appointments without any issues and did not experience any bleeding.
About ten days later, we engaged in sexual intercourse with withdrawal before ejaculation.
Concerned about the possibility of becoming pregnant again, my wife took emergency contraception.
On February 14, we had sexual intercourse again, using the same withdrawal method, and she took emergency contraception one hour afterward.
Due to difficulty sleeping, she also took a sleeping pill.
I am unsure if there is still a chance of pregnancy now.

Lin Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/15

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
It is best to take preventive contraceptive measures beforehand for better assurance.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/02/15

More Info

Understanding the risks of pregnancy after an abortion and the implications of emergency contraception is crucial for individuals navigating these situations. Your concerns regarding your wife's health and the possibility of pregnancy after an abortion and the use of emergency contraception are valid and deserve careful consideration.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that after an abortion, a woman's body typically returns to its pre-pregnancy state relatively quickly. Most women can conceive again soon after an abortion, often within the first menstrual cycle. However, the timing can vary depending on individual health factors and the type of abortion performed. If your wife had a surgical abortion, it is generally safe to resume sexual activity after a follow-up appointment confirms that there are no complications.

Regarding the use of emergency contraception (EC), it is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. The effectiveness of EC is highest when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some forms can be effective up to five days later. Since your wife took the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) shortly after unprotected intercourse, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, it is not 100% effective, and factors such as timing and the specific type of ECP used can influence its efficacy.

In your case, since your wife took the ECP after both instances of unprotected intercourse, her risk of becoming pregnant is lower, but not eliminated. It is also important to note that the use of ECP can cause some temporary side effects, such as changes in menstrual cycle timing, nausea, or fatigue, which can sometimes be confused with early pregnancy symptoms.

Regarding the use of sleeping pills after taking the ECP, it is generally advisable to consult with a healthcare provider about potential interactions or side effects. While many sleeping medications are considered safe for short-term use, it is always best to discuss any medications being taken, especially after a recent abortion and in the context of potential pregnancy.

If your wife does not experience her expected menstrual period within a few weeks after taking the ECP, it would be prudent to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not she is pregnant. Additionally, if there are any unusual symptoms or concerns, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy after an abortion and the use of emergency contraception is reduced, it is not entirely eliminated. Monitoring her menstrual cycle and consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and follow-up care is recommended. Open communication with your healthcare provider can help address any concerns and ensure both your wife’s physical and emotional well-being during this time.

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