QuestionHi Dr. Joan,
I had an unwanted pregnancy and chose the non-surgical method of abortion. I took the first round of pills on the 4th of this month and had the second round inserted on the 6th. I had very heavy cramps and bleeding on the first day, and moderate bleeding after that. I went for my check-up and doctors advised me to have the left over blood sucked out to prevent any problems, as I was going out of the country for a week. Following their advise, I had the suction on the 11th. I have had sex since then. The doctors said that I shouldn't take birth control pills until I have my next period. I've been reading the advice you had given to other women in similar circumstances and thought that it is perhaps wrong to wait. My question is, when should I start taking birth control pills? Should I be worried about getting pregnant again? I used condoms, but they tend to be unreliable, judging from my last experience. Since I had the suction on the 11th, I have not started to ovulate, correct? I really need your advice...
Thank you for your time Dr. Joan.
AnswerDear J,
I am so happy you asked this question about when to start birth control after abortion. I see so many women who wait to start birth control until they get their next period, and then end up getting pregnant again. I do not agree with your doctor's advice. It is best to start birth control within the first week of having an abortion. That way, it is effective immediately. I do not advise that you wait until your next period starts. It can be hard to know when your next period starts, because there can be intermittent bleeding or a delayed period after abortion.
For you, determining the risk of pregnancy is a bit confusing. You had the abortion pill on the 6th, but then had the suction on the 11th. It's hard to know if and when you may have ovulated. If you used condoms, though, you should be fine. My advice would be to start the pills right away. Take them as directed. You may have intermittent bleeding or spotting while you are taking the pills, and your period may not come as expected the week you are off the pills. No matter what your bleeding pattern, take the pills daily as instructed.
There is more information on birth control after abortion on my website: http://www.EarlyAbortionOptions.com
Doctor Joan
New York City
