Post-Abortion Care: Pain and When to Resume Intimacy

Surgical abortion

1.
Hello, I had an abortion on February 15th, and I only experienced a little bleeding that day, which stopped afterward.
However, I am now experiencing pain in my abdomen and chest.
Is this normal?
2.
How long after the abortion should I wait before having sexual intercourse? If I engage in sexual activity within seven days, is there a risk of becoming pregnant again? If I do become pregnant, will the baby be healthy? Should I wait a month before having intercourse?

Xiao Xue, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/19

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Please return for a follow-up appointment after the miscarriage until the treatment is completed.
2.
After a miscarriage, it is advisable to use contraception for 1-3 months.

Reply Date: 2016/02/19

More Info

After undergoing an abortion, it's common to have questions about post-abortion care, especially regarding pain management and when it is safe to resume sexual activity. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions based on medical knowledge and guidelines.

1. Post-Abortion Pain: It is not unusual to experience abdominal and chest pain after an abortion. The pain can be attributed to several factors, including uterine contractions as your body returns to its pre-pregnancy state, hormonal changes, and the physical trauma of the procedure itself. If the pain is mild and manageable, it is generally considered normal. However, if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour), or any signs of infection (such as fever or foul-smelling discharge), it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Resuming Sexual Activity: The general recommendation is to wait at least two weeks after an abortion before resuming sexual intercourse. This waiting period allows your body to heal and reduces the risk of infection. Engaging in sexual activity too soon can increase the risk of complications, including infection and unintended pregnancy.
Regarding your concern about the possibility of becoming pregnant again shortly after an abortion, it is indeed possible to conceive if you have unprotected sex before your next menstrual period. The timing of ovulation can vary, and some women may ovulate as soon as two weeks after an abortion. If you do become pregnant again shortly after an abortion, there is no evidence to suggest that the baby would be unhealthy solely due to the timing of conception. However, it is always advisable to discuss family planning and contraception options with your healthcare provider to ensure that you are prepared for a future pregnancy.

3. Contraception and Future Pregnancies: If you are concerned about becoming pregnant again soon, consider discussing contraceptive options with your healthcare provider. There are various methods available, including hormonal birth control, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and barrier methods, which can help prevent unintended pregnancies.

4. Emotional and Psychological Considerations: It’s also important to consider the emotional and psychological aspects of post-abortion care. Many women experience a range of emotions after an abortion, including relief, sadness, or anxiety. If you find that you are struggling emotionally, consider reaching out to a counselor or support group that specializes in post-abortion care.

In summary, while some pain after an abortion is normal, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they worsen. Waiting at least two weeks before resuming sexual activity is advisable to allow your body to heal properly. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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