After any medical procedure, there are often things you need to avoid during the recovery process. If you’ve had an abortion, you may be wondering what things you need to avoid, such as sexual activity. Keep reading to learn more.
How Long After An Abortion Can I Have Sex?
Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider to determine specific post-abortive guidelines.
After taking the abortion pill, women should abstain from sex for two to three weeks[1] to prevent infection and because bleeding can last between two to four weeks.[2] After a surgical abortion, healthcare providers will evaluate women and clear them for activity. All women should ensure that they have follow-up after an abortion.
How Long After Abortion Can You Get Pregnant?
Typically, periods return within four to six weeks after an abortion. However, they may be irregular due to hormonal changes caused by the procedure.[3]
On average, women can ovulate three weeks after an abortion[4], even if they’re still bleeding. If a woman has sex around that time, there is a chance she could get pregnant again.
Can Abortion Affect My Relationship?
Some women report a decrease in their sexual drive after an abortion[5], which can affect their relationship with their partners.
For example, one study found that abortion was linked with an increase in sexual dysfunction in women. Additionally, couples who experienced abortion were more likely to fight about children.[6]
What Should I Do if I Get Pregnant After a Recent Abortion?
If you’ve become pregnant again after a recent abortion, your first step is to receive an ultrasound! This will determine your:
- Estimated gestational age. Gestational age (how far along you are in pregnancy) can be estimated based on a woman’s last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is the most exact way to determine the gestational age.[7] This is important to know, as the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period.
- Location of the pregnancy. An ultrasound also can show if the pregnancy is inside the uterus. A small number of pregnancies form outside the uterus, known as ectopic pregnancies. Not only can they be life-threatening, but abortion is not the proper way to treat them.[8]
- Viability of pregnancy. Almost 10-20% of known pregnancies end in a miscarriage, and almost 80% of those occur within the first three months of pregnancy.[9]
If you find out that you’re experiencing either an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage through an ultrasound, talk to your medical provider immediately to receive appropriate medical care.
Abortion Information in Euless, Texas
Being pregnant when you don’t want to be can feel overwhelming. But, you aren’t alone! Visit Mid Cities Women's Clinic to speak with our qualified and compassionate staff. We provide a confidential space to get the care you deserve and make an informed decision.
Call us at 817-577-4387 or schedule your appointment online today. All services are free and confidential!
Please be aware that Mid Cities Women's Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- As stated by abortion providers in June 2024.
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024, May 1). Mifepristone (Oral Route) Side Effects. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mifepristone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067123?p=1
- As stated by abortion providers in June 2024.
- Schreiber, C. A., Sober, S., Ratcliffe, S., & Creinin, M. D. (2011). Ovulation resumption after medical abortion with mifepristone and misoprostol. Contraception, 84(3), 230–233. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.contraception.2011.01.013
- Coleman, P. K., Rue, V. M., & Coyle, C. T. (2009). Induced abortion and intimate relationship quality in the Chicago Health and Social Life Survey. Public health, 123(4), 331–338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.puhe.2009.01.005
- Coleman, P. K., Rue, V. M., & Coyle, C. T. (2009, March 26). Induced abortion and intimate relationship quality in the Chicago Health and Social Life Survey. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19324381/
- Ultrasound in Pregnancy. (2022). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy
- Miscarriage. (2022). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9688-miscarriage