What to know about the pregnancy risk after abortion?

Question

Hi doctor,

I was three months pregnant and recently had a medical abortion. I had unprotected intercourse four days before the abortion. I was given 200 mcg of Mifepristone and two days later, Misoprostol, which expelled the pregnancy (the intercourse occurred six days before the Misoprostol).

I am worried that this may start a new pregnancy after the abortion was completed, as sperm can live up to seven days, and if I ovulate immediately after the abortion, the sperm could be alive to start a new pregnancy.

Please can you help me and give me an explanation of the following:

Can 200 mcg of Mifepristone be effective at preventing pregnancy, if taken four days (96 hours) after unprotected sex?
I have found information on the internet which says that in some countries, Mifepristone is used as an effective emergency contraceptive. However, they say small doses of up to 50 mcg. Please tell me whether 200 mcg would be most effective?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concerns.

There seems to be confusion about the dose of Mifepristone, which you know about. Usually, three 200 mg tablets (600 mg total) are orally administered as a single one-time dose of Mifepristone, and two days later, Misoprostol is given. Your idea about 200 mcg Mifepristone is, therefore, incorrect.

Regarding ovulating immediately after a medical abortion, it is not possible. This is because the hormones in your body are still abnormal, and ovulation will not occur in this situation.

I guess you have been given 200 mg of Mifepristone, and there is no risk of pregnancy from sexual intercourse four days after the abortion. The uterus is not ready to have another pregnancy right now, so there is no risk to you.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.