Mid-trimester induced abortion: a review

• Published in: Human reproduction update Vol. 13; no. 1; pp. 37 - 52
• Main Authors: Lalitkumar, S., Bygdeman, M., Gemzell-Danielsson, K.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Oxford University Press 2007; Oxford Publishing Limited (England)
• Subjects: Abortifacient Agents; Abortion, Induced - methods; dilatation and evacuation; Female; Humans; Medicin och hälsovetenskap; mid-trimester induced abortion; mifepristone; misoprostol; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Trimester, Second; vacuum aspiration
• ISSN: 1355-4786; 1460-2369
• DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dml049

Mid-trimester abortion constitutes 10–15% of all induced abortion. The aim of this article is to provide a review of the current literature of mid-trimester methods of abortion with respect to efficacy, side effects and acceptability. There have been continuing efforts to improve the abortion technology in terms of effectiveness, technical ease of performance, acceptability and reduction of side effects and complications. During the last decade, medical methods for mid-trimester induced abortion have shown a considerable development and have become safe and more accessible. The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol is now an established and highly effective method for termination of pregnancy (TOP). Advantages and disadvantages of medical versus surgical methods are discussed. Randomized studies are lacking, and more studies on pain treatment and the safety of any method used in patients with a previous uterine scar are debated, and data are scarce. Pain management in abortion requires special attention. This review highlights the need for randomized studies to set guidelines for mid-trimester abortion methods in terms of safety and acceptability as well as for better analgesic regimens.