Medication Abortion: Concerns About Pregnancy After Treatment

Medication abortion issues

On October 7, I took RU486, and on October 9, I took the second dose.
During my follow-up appointment on October 10, the embryo had been expelled, but the endometrium was not yet completely clear, so I continued taking uterotonics.
On October 17, the endometrium still had not fully cleared, with some remaining tissue, so I continued taking uterotonics.
On October 19, I had unprotected intercourse in the early morning.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy? Do I need to take emergency contraception?

wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/19

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you can take emergency contraception just in case.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/10/19

More Info

When it comes to understanding medication abortion and the potential for pregnancy after treatment, it's important to consider several factors regarding the timing of the medication, the body's response, and the nature of the menstrual cycle.

In your case, you mentioned taking RU486 (mifepristone) on October 7 and a second medication on October 9, which is typically misoprostol. These medications are used in combination for medication abortion. After the administration of these medications, it is common for the body to take some time to fully expel the pregnancy tissue, and it sounds like you are still in that process as of October 19.

The concern about having unprotected intercourse on October 19 is valid, especially since you are still experiencing some residual tissue in the uterus. Generally, after a medication abortion, it is recommended to wait until you have fully expelled the pregnancy and your menstrual cycle has returned to normal before attempting to conceive again. This is to ensure that the uterine lining is healthy and that any potential future pregnancies can develop properly.

Regarding the possibility of becoming pregnant after having unprotected intercourse during this time, it is theoretically possible, but it largely depends on your individual cycle and when ovulation occurs. After an abortion, ovulation can resume relatively quickly, sometimes as soon as two weeks after the procedure. If you were to ovulate shortly after the intercourse, there is a chance of becoming pregnant.

As for the need for emergency contraception (often referred to as the "morning-after pill"), it is typically recommended to take it within 72 to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. However, since you are still in the process of recovering from the medication abortion, it would be prudent to consult with your healthcare provider about whether emergency contraception is appropriate in your specific situation. They can provide guidance based on your health status and the timing of your menstrual cycle.

In summary, while it is possible to conceive after a medication abortion, it is essential to allow your body time to heal and to consult with your healthcare provider regarding the best course of action. They can help you understand your options and any potential risks involved. If you have any concerns about your health or the possibility of pregnancy, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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