Termination of pregnancy

When an unintended pregnancy occurs secondary to contraceptive failure, the availability of safe means of pregnancy termination is important to minimize morbidities and mortalities associated with the abortion procedure. Where allowed within the legal constraints, access to safe abortion should be facilitated without prejudice and stigmatization. The healthcare providers should offer proper pre-abortion counselling and assessment, and choice of the abortion method should be made based on the gestational age and local expertise. Both medical and surgical methods are available for the effective termination of first- and second-trimester pregnancies. Most recommended regimens for medical abortion involve the use of misoprostol with or without mifepristone, whereas surgical abortions generally employ suction evacuation of the uterus. Providers of abortion service should be familiarized with the evidence-based guidelines and protocols published by various authorities on the abortion procedures and postabortion care, as well as means to prevent complications.