After any medical procedure, there are often things you need to consider during the recovery process. If you’ve had an abortion, you may be wondering when you can safely have sex again and whether you can become pregnant soon afterward. Keep reading to learn more.
How Long After An Abortion Can I Have Sex?
Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific recovery and when it is appropriate to resume sexual activity.
Recommendations about when to have sex after an abortion can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of abortion. Some medical guidance recommends waiting until bleeding has stopped, while other guidance advises waiting until you feel physically and emotionally ready.[1]
If you are experiencing ongoing pain, heavy bleeding, signs of infection, or other concerning symptoms, contact a healthcare professional before resuming sexual activity.
How Long After Abortion Can You Get Pregnant?
It is possible to become pregnant again soon after an abortion, even before your next period begins.[2]
According to the CDC, ovulation can occur within two to three weeks after an abortion and has been documented as early as 8 to 13 days after the pregnancy ends.[3] This means pregnancy can occur before your menstrual cycle returns.
Can You Get Pregnant Before Your First Period After an Abortion?
Yes. Because ovulation happens before a menstrual period, it is possible to become pregnant before having your first period after an abortion.[3]
If you have questions about fertility or pregnancy following an abortion, speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your individual circumstances.
Can Abortion Affect My Relationship?
Some women report a decrease in their sexual drive after an abortion[4], 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.[5]
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 can help determine gestational age.[6] This is important to know, as the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period.[7]
- 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.
- Viability of pregnancy. An ultrasound can provide information about the pregnancy and its development.
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
- NHS. Recovery After an Abortion. https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/abortion/recovery/
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use. https://www.cdc.gov/contraception/hcp/usspr/not-pregnant.html
- 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.
- Coleman, P. K., Rue, V. M., & Coyle, C. T. (2009). Induced abortion and intimate relationship quality in the Chicago Health and Social Life Survey. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19324381/
- Cleveland Clinic. Ultrasound in Pregnancy. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation