Contraception after medical abortion.

OBJECTIVES

This study's objectives were to examine current evidence on contraception after abortion and to formulate guidelines for the use of different contraceptives after medical abortion based on current evidence.

METHODS

This study was based on review of published literature and guidelines on postabortion use of contraception.

RESULTS

Contraception needs to be initiated early following a first-trimester abortion. Postabortion family planning is an integral part of comprehensive abortion care. Concurrent contraception with surgical abortion has been found to be practical and effective, with high contraception usage following abortion. Most methods can be safely used following medical abortion and can be initiated either on the day of misoprostol administration (oral pills, condoms and injectable contraceptives) or after the next menstrual cycle (intrauterine device and sterilization).

CONCLUSION

With proper precautions, almost all contraceptive methods can be effectively used following medical abortion.