Will abortion pills affect future fertility?
Hello doctor, I was pregnant twice around the age of 20 and underwent a medical abortion at six weeks in an obstetrics and gynecology clinic.
I would like to know if this will affect my chances of getting pregnant in the future.
I plan to conceive this year! My husband and I have been intimate during the fertile period, and my period is three days late with some early pregnancy symptoms.
In the past, I always experienced breast tenderness a week before my period, but this time I had no breast pain at all.
On the fourth day, I suddenly experienced bleeding and abdominal discomfort.
I would like to know if this could be early pregnancy bleeding or a false pregnancy.
Wang Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/14
Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Medication-induced abortion typically does not affect future pregnancies, unless there are other complications at the time, such as inflammation or adhesions.
It is advisable to first take a urine pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for examination.
Reply Date: 2016/03/14
More Info
The concern regarding the impact of abortion pills on future fertility is a common one among women who have undergone medical abortions. Based on the information provided, it appears that you have previously experienced two pregnancies, both of which ended in medical abortions at around six weeks. Now, you are considering trying to conceive again and are experiencing some symptoms that may indicate early pregnancy.
To address your primary question: the use of abortion pills, when administered correctly and without complications, typically does not have a long-term negative impact on a woman's fertility. Medical abortions, which involve the use of medications such as mifepristone and misoprostol, are designed to terminate a pregnancy safely and effectively. Research indicates that most women who have had a medical abortion can conceive again in the future without any increased risk of infertility.
However, it is essential to consider that certain complications can arise from any abortion procedure, including infection, retained products of conception, or scarring of the uterine lining (intrauterine adhesions). These complications, while relatively rare, can potentially affect future fertility. If you did not experience any complications during your previous abortions, it is likely that your fertility remains intact.
Now, regarding your current situation: you mentioned that your menstrual period is late by three days and that you are experiencing some symptoms that could be indicative of pregnancy, such as breast tenderness and abdominal discomfort. The absence of breast tenderness, which you typically experience before your period, could be a sign of early pregnancy, but it is not definitive on its own. The bleeding you experienced after four days could be due to several reasons, including implantation bleeding, which can occur when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, or it could be a sign of an impending menstrual period.
To clarify your situation, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus. If the test is positive, it would indicate that you are pregnant. If the test is negative and your bleeding continues, it may suggest that your period is starting.
In summary, the use of abortion pills does not inherently affect future fertility, provided that no complications occurred during the procedure. If you are considering pregnancy, it is essential to monitor your body and consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current symptoms. If you are indeed pregnant, early prenatal care is crucial for a healthy pregnancy.
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