Can you get pregnant if you have sex the night before having an abortion?

Nov 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Having intercourse the night before an abortion procedure usually does not result in pregnancy, as the woman's endometrium is no longer suitable for embryo implantation at this stage, and the upcoming abortion will remove any existing embryonic tissue from the uterus, preventing a new pregnancy from developing. However, sexual activity before the procedure increases the risk of infection. If abnormal vaginal discharge, itching, or abdominal pain occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

Having intercourse the night before an abortion procedure usually does not result in pregnancy, as the woman's endometrium is already unsuitable for embryo implantation at this stage. Furthermore, the upcoming abortion surgery will remove any existing embryonic tissue from the uterus, making a new pregnancy impossible. However, sexual activity before the procedure increases the risk of infection. If abnormal vaginal discharge, itching, or abdominal pain occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

From the perspective of conception mechanisms, pregnancy requires the union of sperm and egg to form a fertilized egg, which then successfully implants into the endometrium. Before undergoing an abortion, women have typically already confirmed their pregnancy. Ovulation generally does not occur during this period, and the endometrium is in a special state due to the existing pregnancy. Even if sperm enters the reproductive tract, the necessary conditions for fertilization and implantation are absent, preventing a new pregnancy from forming.

However, the risks associated with preoperative intercourse should not be overlooked. Sexual activity may introduce bacteria into the vagina, and the abortion procedure itself compromises the cervical and endometrial barriers. This increases the likelihood of ascending infections such as intrauterine infection or pelvic inflammatory disease, as well as raising the risks of postoperative bleeding and poor recovery. Therefore, clinicians generally recommend abstaining from intercourse for at least three days prior to the procedure.

Prior to an abortion, it is important to maintain external genital hygiene—washing the vulva with warm water while avoiding douching. Wearing loose, breathable clothing helps reduce bacterial growth. Women should also avoid strenuous exercise and ensure adequate rest to prepare their bodies physically for the procedure.