Expert: Dr. Harriet Johnson - 9/5/2009

Question
The first answer you gave me was very helpful.  I just emailed you about a Medical Abortion I had almost 2 weeks ago.  I wanted to know how I could tell if the morning after pill was effective.  I recieved such a rapid, helpful response that I wanted to ask you one other question that is on my mind.  I am married and I am now on a different kind of Birth Control.  It has been almost 2 weeks and I am no longer bleeding, just barely spotting.  Is it OK to have sex again, with the Birth Control and a Condom?  I wasn't sure if the condom would help prevent any type of infection if my cervix was still slightly open.  I am extremely emotional and my husband is there for me completely. I feel the need to make love to him.  We both thought that it would take months before we were ready for sex again but we were wrong.  Thank you so much for your much appreciated time.

Answer
Hi Holly,

I always advise no sex for about 2-4 weeks unless there is no longer any bleeding. Because you are still spotting I would recommend no sex as you are more prone to infection with or without a condom. When the bleeding completely stops and you feel physically and emotionally ready, sex can be resumed. The feelings you are feeling are most likely stress from the abortion, I felt exactly the same and really I was not ready to have sex again so soon. I wish you the best of luck.