Abortion is not a preventative birth control method, so unprotected sex after the procedure is as likely to get you pregnant as unprotected sex before the procedure. It is possible to be impregnated very shortly after having an abortion; even if you’re still experiencing symptoms from the pregnancy such as nausea due to high hCG levels or symptoms from the procedure such as bleeding. Some literature says it’s possible to become pregnant as soon as 5 days after an abortion. Abortion is not a form of birth control and it will not prevent pregnancy. If you are in recovery from an abortion or considering an abortion, free help is available to you at Today’s Choice if you make an appointment.
Birth Control versus Abortion
Birth control prevents pregnancy from occurring; but abortion ends an existing pregnancy. During conception, sperm fertilizes an egg to form a zygote, which is a single cell that contains the complete genetic information for a new individual formed from his or her mom and dad. The zygote then travels down the fallopian tubes into the uterus, where it turns into a blastocyst. The blastocyst attaches to the side of the uterus, a process called implantation, at which point an amniotic sac begins to develop to form a protective layer around the growing baby. Birth control prevents the sperm from fertilizing the egg. Abortion, on the other hand, does not prevent your body from making eggs; does not inhibit the sperm from reaching the egg; and does not stop implantation. That’s why it’s possible to be impregnated almost immediately after an abortion.
Unprotected Intercourse
Unprotected intercourse often results in pregnancy. Though the likelihood of a pregnancy depends on an individual’s fertility, the ovulation cycle, and other health factors, it is perfectly possible to become pregnant any time unprotected intercourse occurs. It’s even possible, though not likely, to become pregnant while using birth control methods. It’s also possible to be impregnated by sex during the menstrual cycle, or by ejaculation without penetration near the vagina. It’s possible to become pregnant even if you have previously received gender-affirming care including synthetic testosterone. As long as you have ovaries and uterus, sex can lead to pregnancy.
So, how soon can you get pregnant after an abortion?
The answer to the question, “how soon can you get pregnant after an abortion?” is: very quickly. Some literature says less than five days. It’s extremely important to understand that abortion will not prevent pregnancy. If you have questions about abortion or are considering abortion, free consultations and pregnancy support are available at Today’s Choice.