Post-Abortion Concerns: Pregnancy Risks and Contraceptive Guidance

Post-abortion issues?

Hello Dr.
Lu: I was supposed to come in on August 12 but didn't (my cycle is about 30 days).
After a check-up, I confirmed my pregnancy on August 15 (Monday) and went to the hospital for a medical abortion on August 17 (Wednesday).
I took the second dose, and the bleeding stopped on August 25 (Thursday).
However, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on August 27 and 28 (with ejaculation inside).
On the morning of August 30, I experienced nausea, and I'm worried about the possibility of becoming pregnant again.
Could you please advise me on whether the calculation of the safe period for contraception changes after an abortion? I have never taken birth control pills; what should I do now? Thank you!

Xiao Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/31

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Are you worried about the possibility of being pregnant? [Since your last pregnancy ended in a miscarriage and you have not yet resumed ovulation, it is unlikely that you are pregnant.] The nausea you are experiencing [could be due to gastrointestinal issues, or it may be that the previous embryo has not been completely expelled.
There is also a possibility of an ectopic pregnancy, so please visit a gynecologist for an ultrasound to confirm.] Sincerely, Lu Li-Cheng.

Reply Date: 2005/08/31

More Info

It's understandable to have concerns after experiencing a pregnancy termination and engaging in sexual activity shortly thereafter. Let's address your questions step by step.

Firstly, regarding the possibility of becoming pregnant after a medical abortion, it is indeed possible to conceive shortly after the procedure. The menstrual cycle can take some time to regulate, but ovulation can occur as soon as two weeks after the abortion. If you had unprotected intercourse on August 27 and 28, there is a chance that you could be pregnant again, especially if you are experiencing symptoms like nausea.

In terms of contraception, it’s important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider. After an abortion, your body may be more fertile, and using contraception is crucial if you wish to avoid another unintended pregnancy. Since you mentioned that you have never taken birth control pills before, your doctor can guide you on the best method for you. There are various contraceptive options available, including hormonal methods (like the pill, patch, or ring), long-acting reversible contraceptives (like IUDs), and barrier methods (like condoms).

Regarding the calculation of your safe period, it’s important to note that after an abortion, your menstrual cycle may not return to its regular pattern immediately. This means that relying on the calendar method for contraception may not be effective. It’s generally recommended to use a reliable form of contraception consistently until your cycles normalize and you can better predict ovulation.

If you are considering starting birth control pills, it’s typically advised to begin them at least a week before you expect to have unprotected intercourse to ensure maximum effectiveness. Your healthcare provider can provide specific instructions on when to start based on your individual situation.

Additionally, if you suspect you might be pregnant again, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test or consult with your healthcare provider for a blood test. Early detection is key, as it allows for timely medical advice and options.

In summary, after an abortion, it’s essential to consider effective contraception to prevent another unintended pregnancy. Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the best contraceptive methods for you, especially since you are new to hormonal birth control. Monitor your body for any signs of pregnancy, and if you have concerns or symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. Your health and well-being are paramount, and having a supportive healthcare team can help you navigate this period effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Abortion Care and Future Pregnancy Planning

I had my menstrual period on January 30, and on April 12, the doctor confirmed that I was nine weeks pregnant. Concerned about the potential effects of medications on fetal development during pregnancy, I underwent a surgical abortion on April 16. How long should I wait before tr...

Dr. Wu Zongcheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Pauline, Dr. Wu from Tainan City Hospital's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology responds: Abortion is generally a safe procedure and typically does not have long-term side effects. The most common issue following an abortion is inflammation, so it is recommended to...

Understanding Post-Abortion Complications and Concerns

Hello, I took the abortion pill RU486 on October 9 to terminate a pregnancy of about 5 weeks. After taking the second pill on October 11, I started bleeding. During a follow-up ultrasound on October 13, it was confirmed that the embryo had completely expelled, but there was still...

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
I cannot comment directly without conducting relevant tests. I recommend that you visit a center or hospital for a re-examination.

Understanding Abortion Procedures and Future Fertility Concerns

I accidentally became pregnant, and we are not ready to have a child. I went for an abortion. On January 31, the doctor first gave me a pill that I didn't know what it was, and then prescribed me three doses of Misoprostol, instructing me to take all three after breakfast on...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The oral abortion medication RU-486 combined with misoprostol is generally required for pregnancies less than 7 weeks gestation (calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period). It is also necessary to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy. The most common complica...

Concerns About Pregnancy After Medical Abortion and Unprotected Sex

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 purchase...

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...