Abortion, RU486, and Myths About Female Fertility

Q: Abortion, RU486, and Myths About Female Fertility

Hello： 1. <br>Please cherish the life given by God, and welcome to our clinic for prenatal check-ups. <br>2. <br>If you can pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene, affection should not be related to infertility. <br>Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

excuse me?

If a pregnancy test taken seven days after intercourse shows positive results, and the pregnancy is terminated within a month, is this considered an abortion? Or is it more akin to "claw machine" (a colloquial term)? Can one go to a hospital to consult a doctor and self-administer RU486, or are there other better methods that are less harmful to a woman's body? Additionally, is it true that frequent stimulation of a woman's private parts can lead to infertility? Thank you.

Lan Tian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/27

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: 1.
Please cherish the life given by God, and welcome to our clinic for prenatal check-ups.
2.
If you can pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene, affection should not be related to infertility.
Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2006/02/27

More Info

Abortion, particularly in the context of using medications like RU486 (mifepristone), is a topic that often comes with a lot of misconceptions and fears, especially regarding its impact on future fertility. To address your question, if you have a positive pregnancy test within a month of conception and choose to terminate that pregnancy, it is indeed considered an abortion. The term "abortion" refers to the medical process of ending a pregnancy, regardless of how early it occurs.

When it comes to the use of RU486, it is important to note that this medication is specifically designed for medical abortions and is generally considered safe when used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. RU486 works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining a pregnancy. After taking RU486, a second medication, misoprostol, is usually taken to help expel the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. This method is non-invasive compared to surgical abortion and can be done in the privacy of your home, although follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure that the abortion is complete.

Regarding your concerns about the impact of abortion on future fertility, research indicates that when abortions are performed safely and legally, they do not have a long-term negative effect on a woman's ability to conceive in the future. The risk of infertility is more closely associated with complications from unsafe abortions or untreated infections rather than the abortion itself. Therefore, if you are considering an abortion, it is crucial to seek care from a qualified healthcare provider who can ensure the procedure is done safely.

As for the myth that frequent sexual activity or "playing" with a woman's private areas can lead to infertility, this is largely unfounded. Infertility is typically related to medical conditions affecting the reproductive system, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or issues with the fallopian tubes or ovaries. Regular sexual activity, in fact, can help maintain reproductive health, provided that both partners are healthy and there are no underlying medical issues.

If you are feeling uncertain or anxious about your options, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide you with accurate information tailored to your specific situation, discuss the potential risks and benefits of different methods of abortion, and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your health and personal circumstances.

In summary, if you find yourself in a situation where you are pregnant and considering termination, know that you have options. RU486 is a safe and effective method when used correctly, and it is unlikely to affect your future fertility if performed under proper medical supervision. Additionally, concerns about sexual activity leading to infertility are largely myths, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider can help dispel these fears. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking professional guidance.

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