General Conditions
The female reproductive organs consist of internal and external components. Under normal circumstances, the inherent functions of these organs prevent pathogens from entering internally. For example, the labia majora cover the vaginal opening, the anterior and posterior walls of the vagina are tightly sealed, and mucus secreted by the cervical lining forms a mucus plug that blocks the cervical opening.Under the influence of estrogen, this environment inhibits the growth and reproduction of alkaline-loving bacteria.For example, during menstruation, after induced abortion, or following natural childbirth, extensive trauma remains within the uterine cavity. At these times, the vaginal walls and cervical opening dilate, causing the cervical mucus plug to disappear. Furthermore, secretions from the cervix and uterine cavity tend to be alkaline, altering the acidic environment of the vagina. This shift facilitates pathogen proliferation, potentially leading to infections of the female reproductive tract.
How soon after medical abortion can intercourse resume?
Avoid intercourse, sitz baths, and vaginal medication for one month post-abortion. The shedding of the endometrium and relaxation of the cervical opening after abortion increase susceptibility to ascending infections, potentially leading to uterine cavity infections, adnexitis, and other pelvic diseases.Threatened miscarriage may result from abnormal fertilized eggs, endocrine disorders, placental dysfunction, blood type incompatibility, maternal systemic diseases, excessive psychological stress, reproductive organ abnormalities or inflammation, or trauma. It is advisable to first identify the cause and receive targeted treatment before considering conception again after six months. Following an induced abortion, it is best to wait until after the next menstrual period before resuming sexual activity.
After medical abortion, it is advisable to wait until after one normal menstrual cycle before resuming intercourse. We recommend focusing on nutrition and rest without overexertion for the first two weeks following the procedure.A follow-up ultrasound examination at the hospital is recommended 15 days after medical abortion to confirm complete expulsion. Incomplete abortion is a possible complication of medical abortion, making this a routine check-up. A small number of patients experience uterine cavity infections leading to endometritis after medical abortion due to poor hygiene, sexual intercourse during light or temporarily stopped bleeding, or activities like swimming.In such cases, vaginal bleeding may not be heavy but will have a foul odor, possibly mixed with yellow discharge or accompanied by mild lower abdominal pain. Treatment requires adequate antibiotics, along with herbs like Leonurus japonicus paste or Shenghua Decoction to expedite expulsion of retained embryonic tissue. After controlling inflammation, if ultrasound confirms residual tissue in the uterine cavity, a curettage procedure may be performed, followed by continued anti-inflammatory treatment.