Question
Hello doctor,
I had unprotected sex two weeks after my abortion, and I needed to know if I could become pregnant. Ten days later, I experienced light bleeding and a dull pain in my lower abdomen. I took a pregnancy test, which showed two lines, but one line was faint.
Can you confirm if it’s possible to get pregnant just two weeks after an abortion? Also, does the bleeding and dull pain I experienced indicate that I am pregnant again?
Can I get pregnant if I have unprotected sex two weeks after an abortion?
Thao Thi Chi (2001)
Answer
Response by Dr. Pham Thi Yen - Grade I Specialist, Obstetrician, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital
Dear Thao Thi Chi,
Thank you for your question regarding the possibility of getting pregnant two weeks after an abortion.
It's important to understand that a woman's fertility can return quite rapidly after an abortion. It is generally recommended to wait about one month before resuming sexual activity. This waiting period allows adequate time for the body's hormonal levels to stabilize and for the uterine lining to regenerate. After this time, ovulation can occur, which may lead to menstruation if the egg is not fertilized. Typically, the next menstrual period will occur within 4 to 8 weeks following the abortion. If unprotected sex occurs within just two weeks post-abortion, there is a considerable chance of becoming pregnant again, as this time frame may align with ovulation.
Additionally, it's not uncommon for pregnancy tests to yield positive results after an abortion, as the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) can remain in the bloodstream and urine for several weeks. This hormone does not decrease immediately and may take about 4 to 6 weeks to return to pre-pregnancy levels. In your case, with one clear line and one faint line on the test, there are two potential explanations: you may have conceived again due to unprotected intercourse, or the test could still be detecting residual hCG from your previous pregnancy.
I highly recommend seeking a thorough examination and professional consultation at a reputable obstetrics and gynecology clinic.
If you have any further questions about your situation, please feel free to reach out or visit a Vinmec Health System hospital for additional support.
Wishing you good health!
Sincerely,
Dr. Pham Thi Yen
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