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Schueler K, Jacobs M, Averbach S, Marengo A, Mody SK. Understanding medication abortion ineligibility due to gestational age among a cohort of patients in Southern California. Contraception 2024; 133:110386. [PMID: 38307486 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2024.110386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Medication abortion (MAB) is safe and effective up to 77 days gestation. Limited data are available on how often patients are ineligible for MAB due to advanced gestational age and how many of those ineligible go on to receive procedural abortion. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of electronic health records from Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest (PPPSW) from January - December 2021. PPPSW has four procedural abortion sites and 15 MAB-only clinics that offered appointments only if last menstrual period-based GA was ≤70 days or unknown. Patients >70 days gestation by intake ultrasound at a MAB-only clinic were referred to a procedural center. RESULTS Of 11,684 patients presenting for MAB at MAB-only sites 2224 (19%) did not receive a MAB; 3.8% (N = 444) presented past 70 days gestation and were thus ineligible due to gestational age limits. Of those ineligible (N = 444), 234 (53%) measured between 71-77 days of gestation. Three quarters (75.7%) of those ineligible went on to receive a procedural abortion at PPPSW after a mean wait time of 10 days. In multivariable analysis, no demographic factors were associated with higher odds of receiving a procedural abortion. CONCLUSIONS Presenting for MAB past a gestational age limit was uncommon, supporting safety of no-test MAB protocols. A quarter of people ineligible for MAB due to gestational age did not receive a procedural abortion at PPPSW. If MAB were offered up to 77 days, half of patients who were denied MAB due to gestational age could have received MAB, expanding patient access. IMPLICATIONS Being ineligible for MAB due to advanced gestational age was uncommon. Increasing MAB gestational age limits from 70 days to 77 days could further improve abortion access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie Schueler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States.
| | - Marni Jacobs
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Sarah Averbach
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States; Center on Gender Equity and Health, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Antoinette Marengo
- Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Sheila K Mody
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
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2
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Mackinnon Krems J, Grossman D, Ehrenreich K, Ralph L. Money and place: Quantifying the types of obstacles associated with seeking an abortion after 10 weeks' gestation, 2019-2020. Contraception 2024:110476. [PMID: 38679274 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2024.110476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Identify factors associated with presenting for abortion after 10 weeks' gestation in a large, geographically diverse sample. STUDY DESIGN From October 2019 to March 2020, we surveyed 1089 patients seeking abortion at seven U.S. facilities. We identified four domains of barriers: geographic, financial, logistical/personal, and legislative. Using multivariable logistic regression, we investigated the relationship between each domain and presenting for abortion after 10 weeks' gestation, overall and stratified by state policy landscape. RESULTS One-third of participants reported geographic (33.0%), financial (33.3%), and logistical/personal (31.4%) barriers; fewer (4.8%) reported legislative barriers. One-third (30.8%) traveled over 50 miles to the clinic. One-quarter (25.2%) presented after 10 weeks' gestation. In multivariable analyses, financial barriers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06-2.09), geographic barriers (aOR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.44-2.90), and difficulty meeting basic expenses (aOR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.15-1.89) were associated with presenting after 10 weeks' gestation across the seven clinics. Among participants accessing care at clinics in states with supportive abortion policies (n = 178), geographic barriers remained significantly associated with presenting after 10 weeks' gestation. CONCLUSIONS In a large, geographically diverse sample, financial and geographic barriers were associated with presenting after the threshold for medication abortion. In supportive states, the association with geographic barriers persisted. Cost and geographic barriers are increasing as more states restrict abortion post-Dobbs, highlighting the urgent need to expand financial and travel support. IMPLICATIONS People seeking abortion faced barriers before the Dobbs decision. Now, post-Dobbs, restrictions to abortion have only increased, making barriers to care even more threatening. Providing access to financial resources and transportation for people seeking abortion and expanding telehealth medication for abortion is now even more important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Mackinnon Krems
- Joint Medical Program, University of California San Francisco and University of California Berkeley, San Francisco and Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Katherine Ehrenreich
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Ralph
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, CA, USA
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3
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Upadhyay UD, Koenig LR, Meckstroth K, Ko J, Valladares ES, Biggs MA. Effectiveness and safety of telehealth medication abortion in the USA. Nat Med 2024; 30:1191-1198. [PMID: 38361123 PMCID: PMC11031403 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02834-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Telehealth abortion has become critical to addressing surges in demand in states where abortion remains legal but evidence on its effectiveness and safety is limited. California Home Abortion by Telehealth (CHAT) is a prospective study that follows pregnant people who obtained medication abortion via telehealth from three virtual clinics operating in 20 states and Washington, DC between April 2021 and January 2022. Individuals were screened using a standardized no-test protocol, primarily relying on their medical history to assess medical eligibility. We assessed effectiveness, defined as complete abortion after 200 mg mifepristone and 1,600 μg misoprostol (or lower) without additional intervention; safety was measured by the absence of serious adverse events. We estimated rates using multivariable logistic regression and multiple imputation to account for missing data. Among 6,034 abortions, 97.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 97.2-98.1%) were complete without subsequent known intervention or ongoing pregnancy after the initial treatment. Overall, 99.8% (99.6-99.9%) of abortions were not followed by serious adverse events. In total, 0.25% of patients experienced a serious abortion-related adverse event, 0.16% were treated for an ectopic pregnancy and 1.3% abortions were followed by emergency department visits. There were no differences in effectiveness or safety between synchronous and asynchronous models of care. Telehealth medication abortion is effective, safe and comparable to published rates of in-person medication abortion care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ushma D Upadhyay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Leah R Koenig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karen Meckstroth
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Ko
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - M Antonia Biggs
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Arey W, Lerma K, White K. Self-diagnosing the end of pregnancy after medication abortion. Cult Health Sex 2024; 26:405-420. [PMID: 37211833 PMCID: PMC10663384 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2212298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study conducted between November 2020 and March 2021 in the US state of Mississippi examines the experiences of 25 people who obtained medication abortion at the state's only abortion facility. We conducted in-depth interviews with participants after their abortions until concept saturation was reached, and then analysed the content using inductive and deductive analysis. We assessed how people use embodied knowledge about their individual physical experiences such as pregnancy symptoms, a missed period, bleeding, and visual examinations of pregnancy tissue to identify the beginning and end of pregnancy. We compared this to how people use biomedical knowledge such as pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and clinical examinations to confirm their self-diagnoses. We found that most people felt confident that they could identify the beginning and end of pregnancy through embodied knowledge, especially when combined with the use of home pregnancy tests that confirmed their symptoms, experiences, and visual evidence. All participants concerned about symptoms sought follow-up care at a medical facility, whereas people who felt confident of the successful end of the pregnancy did so less often. These findings have implications for settings of restricted abortion access that have limited options for follow-up care after medication abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Arey
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Klaira Lerma
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Kari White
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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5
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Dunlop H, Sinay AM, Kerestes C. Telemedicine Abortion. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 66:725-738. [PMID: 37910115 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine has become a substantial part of abortion care in recent years. In this review, we discuss the history and regulatory landscape of telemedicine for medication abortion in the United States, different models of care for telemedicine, and the safety and effectiveness of medication abortion via telemedicine, including using history-based screening protocols for medication abortion without ultrasound. We also explore the acceptability of telemedicine for patients and their perspectives on its benefits, as well as the use of telemedicine for other parts of abortion care. Telemedicine has expanded access to abortion for many, although there remain limitations to its implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne-Marie Sinay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Courtney Kerestes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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Lerma K, Coplon L, Goyal V. Travel for abortion care: implications for clinical practice. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 35:476-483. [PMID: 37916900 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Traveling long distances to obtain abortion care due to restrictions and scarce availability is associated with significant obstacles. We review clinical strategies that can facilitate abortion access and outline considerations to ensure person-centered and equitable care. RECENT FINDINGS Establishing a patient's gestational duration prior to travel may be beneficial to ensure they are eligible for their desired abortion method at the preferred facility or to determine if a multiday procedure is required. If a local ultrasound cannot be obtained prior to travel, evidence demonstrates people can generally estimate their gestational duration accurately. If unable to provide care, clinicians should make timely referrals for abortion. Integration of telemedicine into abortion care is safe and well regarded by patients and should be implemented into service delivery where possible to reduce obstacles to care. Routine in-person follow-up care is not necessary. However, for those who want reassurance, formalized pathways to care should be established to ensure people have access to care in their community. To further minimize travel-related burdens, facilities should routinely offer information about funding and practical support, emotional support, and legal resources. SUMMARY There are many opportunities to optimize clinical practice to support those traveling for abortion care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaira Lerma
- Population Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Leah Coplon
- Abortion On Demand, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Vinita Goyal
- Population Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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Jung C, Nippita S. Self-managed Medication Abortion in the United States. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 66:739-748. [PMID: 37750672 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Self-managed abortion (SMA) is ending a pregnancy without medical supervision, either by obtaining medications (known as self-managed medication abortion) or through other means. Many factors influence a person's decision to pursue self-managed abortion, such as time constraints, financial considerations, and local availability of abortion services. We present on the prevalence, methods and best practices for clinicians in the United States who may interface with individuals undergoing self-managed medication abortion at any point in the process through a harm reduction approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Jung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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Ode C, Cavelier T, Eydoux R, Federicci M, Hamdaoui N, Piclet H, Amart L, Agostini A. Diagnostic value of a questionnaire for term assessment among women seeking abortion. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2023; 52:102639. [PMID: 37549878 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2023.102639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since 2020 in France, at-home medical abortion (AHMA) has been authorised for up to nine weeks of gestation. All consultations can be performed via teleconsultation. The determination of gestational age (GA) by interrogation avoids a systematic ultrasound and facilitates the care pathway. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of a questionnaire to determine a GA lower than seven or nine weeks of gestation (WG). MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a prospective study carried out on patients requesting an abortion in the Gynaecology Department of the North and Conception hospitals (Hôpital Nord and la Conception), AP-HM (Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille), from 2 November 2021 to 1 September 2022. A modified translated questionnaire was evaluated. The questionnaire was published in June 2020 by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) to ensure access to abortion in England. All patients included in the study completed the questionnaire and received an ultrasound. We assessed the diagnostic value of the questionnaire for determining GA below seven or nine WG. RESULTS Seven hundred and forty-eight patients were included in the study. The sensitivity of the questionnaire for determining patients with a GA of less than seven and nine WG was 84% and 93%, with a positive predictive value of 71.4% and 91.8% respectively. DISCUSSION The study showed that the questionnaire had good diagnostic value for the selection of patients of under nine WG. Thus, women with limited access to ultrasounds could avoid them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Ode
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Conception Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 bd Baille, Marseille 13005, France.
| | - Tiphaine Cavelier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Conception Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 bd Baille, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Raphaelle Eydoux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Conception Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 bd Baille, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Marine Federicci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Conception Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 bd Baille, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Naima Hamdaoui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nord Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Chemin des Bourrely, Marseille 13915, France
| | - Héléne Piclet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nord Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Chemin des Bourrely, Marseille 13915, France
| | - Lise Amart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nord Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Chemin des Bourrely, Marseille 13915, France
| | - Aubert Agostini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Conception Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147 bd Baille, Marseille 13005, France
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Jayaweera R, Egwuatu I, Nmezi S, Kristianingrum IA, Zurbriggen R, Grosso B, Bercu C, Gerdts C, Moseson H. Medication Abortion Safety and Effectiveness With Misoprostol Alone. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2340042. [PMID: 37889485 PMCID: PMC10611991 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.40042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Misoprostol-alone regimens for abortion may be more effective than previously thought. Objective To estimate the effectiveness of medication abortion with misoprostol alone among individuals self-managing their abortion. Design, Setting, and Participants For this prospective observational cohort study of callers to safe abortion hotlines and accompaniment groups in Argentina, Nigeria, and Southeast Asia, participants were recruited between July 31, 2019, and October 1, 2020, prior to starting their medication abortion. Eligible participants were 13 years or older, had no contraindications to medication abortion, and were not currently bleeding. Participants completed a baseline and 2 follow-up surveys. The analysis was restricted to participants who reported using misoprostol alone and was performed between January 6, 2022 and September 8, 2023. Exposure Self-managed medication abortion using misoprostol alone. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was effectiveness, defined as participant self-report of complete abortion without procedural intervention, measured at 1 week and 3 weeks after taking misoprostol. Secondary outcomes included method safety, measured by self-report of experiencing warning signs (eg, heavy bleeding, pain, fever, discharge) indicative of a potential complication and by medical treatment (eg, blood transfusion, intravenous fluids, overnight hospital stay) indicative of a potential adverse event. Additional outcomes included length of bleeding and cramping, time to expulsion, and experience of adverse effects. Results Among 1352 enrolled participants, 637 used misoprostol-alone regimens for abortion and were included in the analysis (591 [92.8%] from Nigeria, 45 [7.1%] from Southeast Asia, and 1 [0.2%] from Argentina; 384 [60.2%] aged 20-29 years; 317 [49.8%] with pregnancy durations <7 weeks and 205 [32.2%] with pregnancy durations between 7 and <9 weeks). At last follow-up after taking medication (median, 22 days; IQR, 21-26 days), 625 participants (98.1%; 95% CI, 96.7%-98.9%) had a complete abortion without procedural intervention. Potential adverse events were reported by 6 participants (0.9%; 95% CI, 0.4%-2.1%). Most participants experienced bleeding for less than 1 week (median, 4 days; IQR, 3-6 days) and expelled their pregnancy within 24 hours of starting the abortion process (median, 12 hours; IQR, 9-15 hours). Common side effects included nausea (335 participants [52.6%]), fever (232 [36.4%]), and diarrhea (181 [28.4%]). Conclusions and Relevance The findings suggest that misoprostol alone is a highly effective method of pregnancy termination. Future research should explore strategies to maximize the effectiveness of misoprostol alone in clinical and nonclinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ijeoma Egwuatu
- Generation Initiative Women and Youth Network, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Sybil Nmezi
- Generation Initiative Women and Youth Network, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Belén Grosso
- La Revuelta Colectiva Feminista, Neuquén, Argentina
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Podolskyi V, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Marions L, Gomperts R. Preabortion ultrasound - a patient perspective. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2023; 28:268-273. [PMID: 37698511 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2023.2249158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore women's perception of the need for an ultrasound scan before medical abortion provided by telemedicine services. METHODS We have analysed women's requests for medical abortion through the website www.womenonweb.org from the 1st of January 2019 to the 5th of October 2020. Before receiving abortion drugs for self-managed medical abortion, women received online counselling and were asked to complete an online survey on pre-abortion ultrasound scan and the reasons for having or not having one. The initial dataset included 62641 entries from 207 countries. Each entry corresponded to a person's request for medical abortion. Women reported only one or multiple reasons for not having a pre-abortion ultrasound scan. RESULTS Among 59648 women requesting a medical abortion, 45653 (76,54%) did not have any pre-abortion ultrasound scan and specified a reason for that. The countries with the highest rates of women not having a pre-abortion ultrasound scan were Thailand, Poland, Northern Ireland, Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Chile, Indonesia, Germany, and Brazil. The main reasons for not having a pre-abortion ultrasound scan were being confident regarding pregnancy length; and thus, no need for a scan stated by 10910/34390 women (31.7%), lack of resources stated by 10589/34390 women (30.8%), and privacy issues stated by 6472/34390 women (18.8%). CONCLUSION Most women opting for medical abortion through telemedicine did not undergo a pre-abortion ultrasound scan. The main reason stated was that women did not find it necessary, lack of resources and privacy issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volodymyr Podolskyi
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- WHO-Centre, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, QB:84, Stockholm, Sweden
- Lukyanova Institute of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology of NAMS of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- WHO-Centre, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, QB:84, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Marions
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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11
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Ehrenreich K, Baba CF, Raifman S, Grossman D. Perspectives on Alternative Models of Medication Abortion Provision Among Abortion Patients in the United States. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:481-488. [PMID: 37105836 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Restrictions on the availability of medication abortion are a barrier to accessing early abortion. People seeking medication abortion may be interested in obtaining the medications through alternative models. The purpose of this study was to explore patient perspectives on obtaining abortion medications in advance of pregnancy or over the counter (OTC). STUDY DESIGN Between October 2017 and August 2018, we conducted 30 in-depth interviews with abortion patients who indicated support for alternative models. We recruited patients from 10 abortion clinics in states with a range of policy environments. We analyzed interviews using inductive and deductive iterative techniques. RESULTS Participants identified logistical benefits of these alternative models, including eliminating travel to a clinic and multiple appointments, and increased privacy around decision-making. Participants were interested in advance provision for its convenience and the sense of preparedness that would come with having the pills available at home, yet some had concerns about the pills being found or stolen. Privacy was the key factor considered for OTC access, including both the privacy benefits of avoiding a clinic and the concern of having one's privacy compromised within the community if purchasing the medications in public. CONCLUSIONS People who have previously had a medication abortion are interested in alternative methods of provision for reasons concerning convenience, privacy, and avoiding burdens related to hostile policy environments, such as long travel distances to clinics and multiple appointments. Concerns around these models were primarily safety concerns for young people. Further research is needed to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility of these alternative models of providing medication abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Ehrenreich
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California.
| | - C Finley Baba
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
| | - Sarah Raifman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
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Moseson H, Jayaweera R, Egwuatu I, Grosso B, Kristianingrum IA, Nmezi S, Zurbriggen R, Bercu C, Motana R, Gerdts C. Effectiveness of Self-Managed Medication Abortion Between 9 and 16 Weeks of Gestation. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:330-338. [PMID: 37411022 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate abortion completion after self-managed medication abortion in pregnancies at or beyond 9 weeks of gestation. METHODS We conducted a prospective observational cohort study in which we recruited callers to three abortion-accompaniment groups in Argentina, Nigeria, and Southeast Asia who were initiating a self-managed medication abortion. Participants completed a baseline survey over the phone before taking pills and then two follow-up phone surveys 1 and 3 weeks after taking pills. The primary outcome was abortion completion; secondary outcomes included physical experiences and health care seeking and treatment. RESULTS Between 2019 and 2020, we enrolled 1,352 participants, 19.5% (264/1,352) of whom self-managed a medication abortion at 9 or more weeks of gestation: 75.0% (198/264) at 9-11 weeks, 19.3% (51/264) at 12-14 weeks, and 5.7% (15/264) at 15-22 weeks. Participants were aged 26 years on average (SD 5.6 years); 56.4% (149/264) used the combined regimen (mifepristone+misoprostol), and 43.6% (115/264) used misoprostol only. At the last follow-up, 89.4% (236/264) had a complete abortion without procedural intervention, 5.3% (14/264) had a complete abortion with manual vacuum aspiration or dilation and curettage procedure, 4.9% (13/264) had an incomplete abortion, and 0.4% (1/264) participants did not report an abortion outcome. Some participants (23.5%, 62/264) sought health care during or after the self-managed medication abortion, most commonly to confirm completion (15.9%, 42/264); 9.1% (24/264) needed further medical intervention (procedural evacuation, antibiotics, additional misoprostol, intravenous fluids, blood transfusion, or overnight stay in the facility). Those who were 12 or more weeks pregnant were more likely to seek care at a clinic or hospital than those who were 9-11 weeks pregnant (adjusted relative risk 1.62, 95% CI 1.3-2.1). CONCLUSION People who self-managed an abortion with medication between 9 and 16 weeks of gestation had high levels of abortion completion and accessed health care to confirm completion or to treat potential complications. CLINICALTRIALREGISTRATION ISRCTN, ISRCTN95769543.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Moseson
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Oakland, California; the Generation Initiative for Women and Youth, Lagos, Nigeria; La Revuelta Colectiva Feminista, Neuquén, Argentina; Samsara, Southeast Asia; and Ibis Reproductive Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ralph L, Biggs MA, Ehrenreich K, Grossman D. Accuracy of Self-assessment of Gestational Duration Among Adolescents Seeking Abortion Using Information in Addition to Date of Last Menstrual Period. JAMA Pediatr 2023; 177:642-644. [PMID: 37067809 PMCID: PMC10111228 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
This diagnostic study evaluates whether using additional information beyond the date of last menstrual period is associated with improved accuracy of self-assessed gestational duration among adolescents seeking abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Ralph
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - M. Antonia Biggs
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Katherine Ehrenreich
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
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Jung C, Oviedo J, Nippita S. Abortion Care in the United States - Current Evidence and Future Directions. NEJM Evid 2023; 2:EVIDra2200300. [PMID: 38320010 DOI: 10.1056/evidra2200300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Abortion Care in the United StatesAbortion services are a vital component of reproductive health care. Jung and colleagues review medication abortion and procedural abortion as well as implications of increasing restrictions on access in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Jung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine
| | - Johana Oviedo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine
| | - Siripanth Nippita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine
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15
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Verma N, Grossman D. Self-Managed Abortion in the United States. Curr Obstet Gynecol Rep 2023; 12:70-75. [PMID: 37305376 PMCID: PMC9989574 DOI: 10.1007/s13669-023-00354-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review aims to provide up-to-date information about self-managed abortion in the USA. Recent Findings Evidence indicates that there is growing demand for self-managed abortion in the USA as obstacles to facility-based care increase, especially since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Self-managed abortion with medications is safe and effective. Summary Based on a nationally representative survey, the lifetime prevalence of self-managed abortion in the USA in 2017 was estimated to be 7%. People experiencing barriers to abortion care, including people of color, people with lower incomes, people in states that have restrictive abortion laws, and those living farther from facilities providing abortion care are more likely to attempt self-managed abortion. While people may use a range of methods to self-manage abortion, there is growing use of safe and effective medications, including mifepristone used together with misoprostol and misoprostol used alone; use of traumatic and dangerous methods is rare. While many people attempt to self-manage their abortion because of barriers to facility-based care, others have a preference for self-care because it is convenient, accessible, and private. While the medical risks of self-managed abortion may be few, the legal risks may be significant. Sixty-one people have been criminally investigated or arrested between 2000 and 2020 for allegedly self-managing their abortion or helping someone else do so. Clinicians play an important role in providing evidence-based information and care to patients considering or attempting self-managed abortion, as well as minimizing legal risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Verma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
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Pearlman Shapiro M, Dethier D, Kahili-Heede M, Kaneshiro B. No-Test Medication Abortion: A Systematic Review. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:23-34. [PMID: 36701607 DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000005016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarize the effectiveness and safety outcomes of medication abortion performed without prior pelvic examination or ultrasonogram ("no-test medication abortion"). DATA SOURCES We searched the MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane (including ClinicalTrials.gov), CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, and CAB Direct databases to identify relevant studies published before April 2022 using a peer-reviewed search strategy including terms such as "medication abortion" and "ultrasonography." We contacted experts in the field for unpublished data and ongoing studies. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION We reviewed 2,423 studies using Colandr. We included studies if they presented clinical outcomes of medication abortion performed with mifepristone and misoprostol and without prior pelvic examination or ultrasonogram. We excluded studies with duplicate data. We abstracted successful abortion rates overall, as well as rates by gestational age through 63 days, 70 days and past 84 days. We abstracted complication rates, including the need for surgical evacuation, additional medications, blood transfusion, and ectopic pregnancy. TABULATION, INTEGRATION AND RESULTS We included 21 studies with a total of 10,693 patients with outcome data reported. The overall efficacy of no-test medication abortion was 96.4%; 93.8% (95% CI 92.8-94.6%) through 63 days of gestation and 95.2% (95% CI 94.7-95.7%) through 70 days of gestation. The overall rate of surgical evacuation was 4.4% (95% CI 4.0-4.9), need for additional misoprostol 2.2% (95% CI 1.8-2.6), blood transfusion 0.5% (95% CI 0.3-0.6), and ectopic pregnancy 0.06% (95% CI 0.02-0.15). CONCLUSION Medication abortion performed without prior pelvic examination or ultrasonogram is a safe and effective option for pregnancy termination. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO, CRD42021240739.
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Endler M, Petro G, Gemzell Danielsson K, Grossman D, Gomperts R, Weinryb M, Constant D. A telemedicine model for abortion in South Africa: a randomised, controlled, non-inferiority trial. Lancet 2022; 400:670-679. [PMID: 36030811 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01474-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine for medical abortion increases access to safe abortion but its use has not been described in a controlled trial. We aimed to investigate the effectiveness, adherence, safety, and acceptability of a modified telemedicine protocol for abortion compared with standard care in a low-resource setting. METHODS In this randomised, controlled, non-inferiority trial we recruited women seeking medical abortion at or before 9 gestational weeks at four public health clinics in South Africa. Participants were randomly allocated (1:1) by computer-generated blocks of varying sizes to telemedicine or standard care. The telemedicine group received asynchronous online abortion consultation and instruction, self-assessed gestational duration, and had a uterine palpation as a safety measure. Participants in this group took 200 mg mifepristone and 800 μg misoprostol at home. The standard care group received in-person consultation and instruction together with an ultrasound, took 200 mg mifepristone in clinic and 800 μg misoprostol at home. Our primary outcome was complete abortion after initial treatment, assessed at a 6-week interview. Our non-inferiority margin was 4%. Group differences were assessed by modified intention-to-treat (mITT) analysis and per protocol. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04336358, and the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, PACTR202004661941593. FINDINGS Between Feb 28, 2020, and Oct 5, 2021, we enrolled 900 women, 153 (17·0%) of whom were discontinued before the abortion and were not included in the analysis. By mITT analysis, 355 (95·4%) of 372 women in the telemedicine group had a complete abortion compared with 338 (96·6%) of 350 in the standard care group (odds ratio 0·74 [95% CI 0·35 to 1·57]). The risk difference was -1·1% (-4·0 to 1·7). Among women who completed treatment as allocated (per protocol), 327 (95·6%) of 342 women in telemedicine group had complete abortion, compared with 338 (96·6%) of 350 in the standard care group (0·77 [0·36 to 1·68]), with a risk difference of -1·0% (-3·8 to 1·9). One participant (in the telemedicine group) had a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, and a further four participants were admitted to hospital (two in each group), of whom two had blood transfusions (one in each group). INTERPRETATION Asynchronous online consultation and instruction for medical abortion and home self-medication, with uterine palpation as the only in-person component, was non-inferior to standard care with respect to rates of complete abortion, and did not affect safety, adherence, or satisfaction. FUNDING Grand Challenges Canada and the Swedish Research Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit Endler
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Gregory Petro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kristina Gemzell Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dan Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Maja Weinryb
- Department of Women's and Children's Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Deborah Constant
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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Cohen RH, Teal SB. Medication for Early Pregnancy Termination. JAMA 2022; 327:2446-2447. [PMID: 35653130 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2022.6344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H Cohen
- Division of Complex Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Stephanie B Teal
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
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