I had unprotected sex after an abortion. Could I be pregnant?

Question

Hello doctor,

My partner and I had intercourse last night, which was the 13th day after I had an abortion. We did not use any protection and only relied on the withdrawal method. I am worried about becoming pregnant again.

Earlier today, I followed the Yuzpe method and took four tablets of Ethinylestradiol and Levonorgestrel, and I will take another four tablets later as directed. However, since I am obese, I am afraid that the effectiveness may be reduced.

Please tell me,

Am I doing the right thing?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Since you had an abortion about two weeks ago, it is important to know that ovulation and fertility can return very quickly, sometimes within two to three weeks. Therefore, there is indeed a chance of pregnancy if you have unprotected sexual intercourse.

The withdrawal method is not reliable. However, taking emergency contraception, such as the Yuzpe method (which uses certain birth control pills in higher doses, typically Ethinylestradiol of estrogen class) and Levonorgestrel (progestin class), can help reduce the risk if taken as soon as possible after intercourse.

Its effectiveness is generally lower compared to dedicated emergency contraceptive pills, and obesity can reduce how well specific emergency contraceptives work.

You did the right thing by taking action quickly. Still, given your weight and the recent abortion, it would be best to consult a doctor about whether you should use an alternative emergency option such as a copper intrauterine device (IUD- non-hormonal contraceptive device), which is the most effective, or Ulipristal acetate (selective progesterone receptor modulator medicine) if it is available in your region.

In the meantime, drink plenty of water, get adequate rest, and monitor yourself for side effects such as nausea or irregular bleeding, which are common after the Yuzpe method.

Going forward, I would suggest you to consider starting a reliable, regular contraceptive method, both to avoid another unintended pregnancy and to allow your body adequate time to recover after the abortion.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.