Your Pregnancy Questions After RU-486: A Guide

I urgently want to know... Am I pregnant?

Hello.
I took the first dose of RU-486 on August 20 and the second dose on August 22.
After a follow-up appointment on September 3, I had an ultrasound, and the doctor said everything was cleared.
I would like to ask:
1.
When should I expect my next menstrual period?
2.
When will my next ovulation occur?
3.
What are the safe and dangerous periods?
4.
I had sexual intercourse on August 29, September 5, and November 19.
Is there a possibility that I could be pregnant?
5.
If so, (1) how many weeks pregnant would I be now? (2) Which instance of sexual intercourse could have led to the pregnancy? (3) Can I take RU-486 again?
6.
If I have two abortions within two months, will it affect my fertility?

En, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/24

Dr. Wu Zongcheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Director Wu Zongcheng of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, responded to Ms.
En:
1.
After taking RU-486 for abortion, menstrual cycles may be irregular, which means ovulation and safe periods are also unpredictable; therefore, traditional risk period calculations should not be used.

2.
It is advisable to take oral contraceptives for 1 to 2 months after an abortion to avoid difficulties in calculating the risk periods.

3.
Frequent abortions increase the likelihood of future infertility.

4.
Please confirm pregnancy with a test before using RU-486.
Wishing you good health and all the best from Tainan Hospital!

Reply Date: 2004/09/24

More Info

After taking RU-486, also known as mifepristone, it is essential to understand the implications for your menstrual cycle, ovulation, and future pregnancies. Here’s a comprehensive guide to address your questions and concerns.

1. Next Menstrual Period: After a medical abortion using RU-486, it is common for the menstrual cycle to be irregular for a while. Typically, you can expect your next period to return within 4 to 6 weeks after the abortion. However, this can vary significantly from person to person. It’s important to note that the timing may not be predictable, and some women may experience delays.

2. Next Ovulation: Similar to your menstrual cycle, ovulation may also be irregular following an abortion. Ovulation can occur as early as two weeks after the procedure, but it may take longer for some women. If you are trying to track ovulation, consider using ovulation predictor kits or monitoring changes in your cervical mucus.

3. Safe and Unsafe Periods: The concept of safe and unsafe periods is based on the regularity of your menstrual cycle. After an abortion, it is not advisable to rely on this method for contraception, as your cycle may not be regular. It is recommended to use reliable contraception methods to prevent unintended pregnancies.

4. Possibility of Pregnancy After Recent Sexual Intercourse: Given that you had sexual intercourse on August 29, September 5, and November 19, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant if you ovulated during that time. If you are concerned about a potential pregnancy, taking a home pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider would be advisable.

5. If Pregnant:
- (1) If you are pregnant, the gestational age would depend on the date of conception, which is typically calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period. If you had unprotected intercourse around the time of ovulation, you would need to calculate from that date.

- (2) Determining which act of intercourse led to the pregnancy can be challenging without precise tracking of ovulation and menstrual cycles.

- (3) It is not recommended to take RU-486 again without medical supervision. If you suspect you are pregnant after taking RU-486, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

6. Impact of Multiple Abortions on Future Fertility: Concerns about future fertility after multiple abortions are common. While having two abortions within a short period may raise concerns, studies indicate that medical abortions, when performed correctly, do not significantly impact future fertility. However, repeated surgical abortions can increase the risk of complications, such as scarring of the uterus, which may affect future pregnancies. It is crucial to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history.

In conclusion, after taking RU-486, it is essential to monitor your body’s changes and consult with a healthcare provider for any concerns regarding your menstrual cycle, ovulation, and future pregnancies. Using reliable contraception and discussing your options with a medical professional can help you navigate this period more effectively. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek support and guidance.

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