If you’re wondering what to expect fertility-wise after an abortion, understanding how abortion can affect future pregnancies is important so you can protect your reproductive health.
Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County provides information about abortion in a confidential, supportive environment. While most women can become pregnant again after an abortion, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of.
Schedule an appointment at our center today to get the answers you need.
Can an Abortion Affect Your Fertility?
Most women can become pregnant again after an abortion without difficulty. However, fertility can be influenced by your reproductive health, your partner’s fertility, and whether you experienced complications after the abortion.
Infection is a possible complication after an abortion and may occur because of an incomplete abortion or an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI). Many infections can be treated with antibiotics. If an incomplete abortion has occurred, a follow-up surgical procedure may be needed to remove remaining pregnancy tissue.
If an infection is left untreated, it can affect your reproductive health, resulting in conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, which can affect your fertility.
Although uncommon, surgical abortion carries a risk of Asherman’s syndrome, where scar tissue forms inside the uterus. If not treated, it can result in difficulty getting pregnant again or more frequent pregnancy loss.
How Soon Can You Become Pregnant After an Abortion?
You can become pregnant again in as little as two weeks after an abortion, depending on when ovulation returns. Your normal menstrual cycle should return within 4 to 6 weeks after a medical abortion, but this is different for every woman.
Your healthcare provider may recommend that you refrain from sexual intercourse for the first few weeks to reduce the chances of infection and to allow your body to heal.
Preparing for a Future Pregnancy
If you’re hoping to become pregnant again, understanding your menstrual cycle and recognizing when you ovulate can help you plan for the future. If you have questions about your recovery or fertility, talking with a healthcare provider is an important first step.
At the Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County, we can help answer questions you may have about your fertility and offer one-to-one mentoring with our client advocates to help you through this time.
We also provide parenting classes where you can receive practical advice and support from our team.
We Are Here To Support You
Whether you’re looking for information about abortion, planning for a future pregnancy, or think you may be pregnant now, the Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County is here for you.
We offer pregnancy services, including pregnancy testing and limited OB ultrasounds, as well as accurate information about your options in a safe environment. All of our services are free and confidential.
Contact us to make an appointment.
Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County does not provide or refer for abortions.