[Legal abortions at the University-Gynecological Clinic Mannheim during 1971-1974].

Between 1971 and 1974 142 legal abortions were performed. Methods used were determined by gestational age, size of the uterus and whether or not abortion in conjunction with sterilization was indicated. Dilatation and evacuation was employed in 46% of cases; in 8% of these sterilization was performed at a later date. A further 55% were treated by means of primary hysterectomy, 38% via the vaginal route, 17% via the abdominal route. Complications were observed in 4 cases (3 perforations, 1 post-operative haemorrhage, 1 case of endometritis). The complication rate was not higher than in non-pregnant women.