Acceptability of home-use of misoprostol in medical abortion.

INTRODUCTION

Home-use of misoprostol would reduce the number of visits and improve access to medical abortion. We evaluated acceptance of home-use of misoprostol among women and their partners.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

One hundred women with up to 49 days of amenorrhea were given mifepristone, followed by misoprostol taken at home.

RESULTS

Women chose home-use of misoprostol because it felt more natural, private and allowed the presence of a partner/friend. Two women had a vacuum aspiration due to incomplete abortion. Five unscheduled visits occurred. Ninety-six women were satisfied with their choice of home-use. The male partners were generally satisfied with their partner's choice of home-use and felt that their presence and support had been valuable.

DISCUSSION: Our study shows a high acceptability among women and their partners and confirms the safety and efficacy of home-use of misoprostol. Women should be offered this choice to allow more flexibility and privacy in their abortions.