Teal SB, Harken T, Sheeder J, Westhoff C
Efficacy, acceptability and safety of medication abortion in low-income, urban Latina women. [Journal Article]
Contraception 2009 Nov; 80(5):479-83.
BACKGROUND: Health care providers may be reluctant to offer medication abortion to low-income, non-English-speaking populations. Concerns include lack of patient interest, incorrect use of misoprostol at home, missing mandatory follow-up visits and inappropriate use of emergency services. We describe the appeal, acceptability, safety and follow-up rates of medication abortion in a low-income Latina population in New York City.
STUDY DESIGN: Nested analysis of 270 subjects up to 63 days' gestation enrolled in a multicenter trial of medication abortion comparing different mifepristone-misoprostol intervals. After receiving mifepristone, subjects were instructed on home use of misoprostol, what to do in an emergency and when to return.
RESULTS: This population was predominantly Spanish-speaking, unmarried, poor and publicly insured. Ninety-six percent took the misoprostol at home correctly, 90% returned as scheduled without reminders and 2% were lost to follow-up. Ninety-six percent described the experience as positive or neutral and 94% would recommend medication abortion to a friend. Three serious adverse events occurred and women accessed emergency services appropriately.
CONCLUSION: Medication abortion can be a very appealing, safe and effective option in low-income, non-English-speaking populations.
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