How long after a medical abortion can one resume sexual intercourse?
May 21, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Ting
Introduction
Women are advised to abstain from sexual intercourse for at least one month following a medical abortion. This is because the shedding of the decidua requires time; engaging in intercourse too early may lead to intrauterine infection, and penile insertion may cause trauma to the uterus, which has not yet fully recovered. Approximately three weeks after a medical abortion, women should promptly visit a hospital for gynecological color Doppler ultrasound, a panel of six sex hormones, and serum β-hCG testing to assess uterine recovery.
Medical abortion refers to the expulsion of the gestational sac from the uterus via oral medication. Women are advised to abstain from sexual intercourse for at least one month following medical abortion, as the shedding of the decidua requires time for complete resolution. Premature resumption of intercourse may lead to intrauterine infection and cause physical trauma to the uterus, which has not yet fully recovered, due to penile insertion.
Approximately three weeks after medical abortion, women should visit a hospital for gynecological ultrasound, sex hormone assays, and serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) testing to assess uterine recovery and rule out incomplete abortion. Sexual intercourse should only resume once uterine recovery is confirmed. Should vaginal bleeding or lower abdominal pain/discomfort occur during intercourse, prompt medical evaluation is required.
Following medical abortion, the body is generally weakened; therefore, adequate rest is essential, and excessive physical exertion should be avoided. Aim for 8–10 hours of sleep per day. Nutrient-rich foods—including high-protein supplements, fresh vegetables, and fruits—should be consumed regularly. A follow-up visit to the hospital is recommended one week post-abortion to evaluate whether residual products of conception (e.g., gestational sac) have been completely expelled. If retained tissue remains within the uterus, blood-activating and stasis-resolving medications may be prescribed to promote uterine contraction, facilitate expulsion of embryonic tissue, and reduce vaginal bleeding.
