Non-evidence-based use of Rho(D) immune globulin for threatened abortion by family practice and obstetric faculty physicians.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the practice patterns and differences between faculty members in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/G) and family practice (FP) residency programs in administering Rho(D) immune globulin (RhIG) for threatened abortion.

STUDY

DESIGN

A questionnaire was mailed to 50% (222) of all FP residencies and 100% (267) of OB/G programs in the United States. The obstetric curriculum coordinator at each FP residency and the director of obstetrics or maternal-fetal medicine at each OB/G residency were asked to respond. A total of 156 (70%) FP questionnaires and 186 (70%) OB/G questionnaires were returned after two mailings.

RESULTS

Seventy-six percent of FP faculty and 85% of OB/G faculty reported giving RhIG in threatened abortion. Physicians with advanced training were more likely to recommend giving RhIG.

CONCLUSION

Most FP and OB/G residency faculty report using RhIG in threatened abortion. The practice has become part of the medical culture despite the lack of supporting evidence and should be revaluated in that light.