After having an abortion you may be wondering when it’s safe to have sex again. Emotional changes, worries of getting pregnant again, or concerns about your physical health may all present questions about when it’s safe to have sex after an abortion. There’s no one simple rule, but your own mental and physical health are the most important things to consider.
How long after an abortion can you have sex?
After an abortion, you can return to sexual activity as soon as you feel ready. Some medical providers may recommend you wait to resume sexual activity (or put anything inside your vagina) due to a very small risk of infection; however, newer studies suggest this is not medically necessary – so the choice is ultimately yours regarding when you feel ready to have sex - both physically and mentally. You may find that while you are physically fine, you need a little extra time to get “in the mood.” Being emotionally ready for sex is just as important as being physically ready, so give yourself all the time you need to return to your “normal” sex life.
How long after the abortion pill can you have sex?
The simplest answer is that it’s up to you. There’s no definitive timeline for when you can have sex after a medication abortion. Some medical providers may suggest that you wait to have sex or insert anything into your vagina for 2-3 weeks because of the small risk of infection. New studies have suggested this is medically unnecessary. Be sure to listen to your abortion provider’s advice, as well as your body. Don’t rush into sex if you don’t feel ready. You may be physically ready, but it’s common to not be “in the mood” yet. And that’s ok. You’re not obligated to follow anyone else’s schedule but your own.
After a medication abortion, it's common to experience period-like bleeding for up to four weeks, which may intermittently start and stop. While some opt to wait until the bleeding stops before having sex or being intimate with their partner, some don’t. Your decision should be based on your comfort and personal circumstances. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach; it's about what feels right for you.
Trust yourself & your body
The time and fashion in which you re-engage with sexual activities after an abortion is entirely up to you. Listen to the advice of your abortion provider, prioritize your mental health and personal pleasure, and, above all, trust your ability to move at your own pace.
How soon after an abortion can you get pregnant?
Timing can vary from person to person, but it’s possible to become pregnant very soon after an abortion, even if you haven’t had your period yet.
Abortion starts a new menstrual cycle. If a menstrual cycle is roughly 28 to 30 days, then ovulation will typically occur in the middle of that time frame. However, some people might have a shorter or longer timeframe. Some periods go back to normal 4 to 8 weeks after an abortion. If you’re not on birth control and haven’t had your period by 8 weeks, take a pregnancy test. If you want to resume having sex after your abortion, be sure to use prescription birth control or a barrier method like condoms.
When should I start birth control after treatment?
You can start taking birth control pills, the patch, or the vaginal ring right away after an abortion. According to the American Council of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), all contraceptive methods are safe and effective immediately after abortion procedures and when otherwise medically appropriate for a patient. Some providers require a negative pregnancy test before inserting an intrauterine device (IUD) or starting other birth control methods, so talk to your provider about what they’d prefer when scheduling your appointment.
At Hey Jane, we can help you make informed choices with a seamless transition from your treatment to a personalized birth control option. If you don’t know what kind of birth control to use, our licensed providers can provide guidance over the phone. After you choose your birth control, they’ll send the prescription to your local pharmacy for easy pick-up. Looking to renew your birth control prescription or try something new? Hey Jane can help.
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Prevent future unwanted pregnancies with a reliable birth control method that works for your body and schedule.
Consistent birth control is the best way to prevent unwanted pregnancies, but it has to work with your lifestyle and medical history to actually be effective. Hey Jane can now help you find the right birth control option discreetly and conveniently. Whether it's birth control pills, the patch, shot, ring, or non-hormonal methods, our licensed providers can help you navigate 100+ options. They’ll review your medical history, chat with you about your current lifestyle, and discuss your birth control preferences to offer an option that’s right for you.
Do I need to use condoms after an abortion if I’m starting birth control?
If you don't want to get pregnant, it's a good idea to use a backup method like condoms for the first week you start taking birth control. This is usually a short term tactic. Many birth control methods are effective right away, but some (like the pill) may take up to 7 days to fully protect you. Using condoms during that time reduces your risk of pregnancy and also protects against STIs (CDC).
What will sex be like after an abortion?
Sex after abortion is a personal experience and you may notice that your sex drive is different. Most people report the return of a normal sex drive following their abortion. Studies show that those who are satisfied with their romantic relationships are more likely to have sexual satisfaction. If you are ever in a situation that feels unsafe, talk to your primary care doctor or someone you trust. You may also experience increased bleeding after sex following your abortion. Bleeding after sex is not uncommon and may occur whether or not you’ve had an abortion, however, if your bleeding is heavy or is associated with heavy cramping or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, speak to your medical provider. Pain during sex, fever, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge are all signs you should speak with your doctor.
When does sex become physically comfortable again after the abortion pill?
Everyone’s recovery is different, but many people feel physically ready within 1–2 weeks. You might still have cramping, bleeding, or vaginal tenderness that can make sex uncomfortable at first, while others have no discomfort at all. Listen to your body and only do what feels good—whether that means waiting longer, pausing sex, or exploring non-penetrative options. When bleeding stops and natural lubrication returns, sex usually feels more comfortable. If you continue to have pain or discomfort, reach out to your provider.
Can sex feel different emotionally after an abortion?
Absolutely—but the experience varies person to person. Some people notice changes in desire, comfort, or intimacy after an abortion, even if they feel physically healed. These shifts are normal and may be temporary. Explore trusted resources, including talk and text lines, for support here.
Is bleeding after sex normal following an abortion?
Yes, it can be. Light bleeding or spotting after sex is common in the weeks following a medication or procedural abortion. This usually happens because the uterus and cervix are still healing. If the bleeding is heavy, accompanied by foul-smelling discharge, or severe cramping, contact a medical provider right away (ACOG).
What are the safest ways to prevent infection after sex post-abortion?
Good hygiene practices to prevent infection include:
- Urinating after sex to expel any bacteria that may have entered your urethra during sex
- Wiping front to back to avoid indroducing new bacteria
- Avoiding douching or scented vaginal products like tampons, pads, or deodorants
- Staying hydrated and drink plenty of water to flush your system
While sex isn’t the direct cause of infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, herpes, or bacterial vaginosis (BV), bacteria that can enter the vagina during unprotected sex or from using sex toys can contribute to infections. If you develop symptoms like burning, itching, or unusual discharge, Hey Jane can help with treatment for UTIs, BV, or yeast infections online.
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