[Completed by PPLM] - Prospective Study

This study compared the effectiveness and acceptability of different methods used to reduce pain levels in first-trimester surgical abortion with local anesthesia. Methods included 1. no additional medication, 2. lorazepam taken sublingually (under the tongue), and 3. intravenous (IV) sedation with fentanyl and midazolam. Results revealed that the third method was most effective in reducing pain scores overall.

Key words:
Abortion, Surgical Abortion, Pain Control

[Completed by PPLM] - Prospective Study

In this study, bleeding patterns were observed in patients taking emergency contraception pill (ECP). Participants recorded bleeding patterns for nine weeks, and it was found that the timing of ECP administration had a significant impact on bleeding patterns.  

Key words:
Contraception, Emergency Contraception, 

[Completed by PPLM] - Randomized Controlled Trial 

This study compared the efficacy of two different methods of taking medication abortion medication. Participants took the initial dose of mifepristone and then either took misoprostol orally (swallowed) or buccally (within cheeks) 24-36 hours later. Results showed that both methods had relatively similar success rates, but that the oral method was less effective as gestational age increased.  

Key words:
Abortion, Medication Abortion, Mifepristone, Misoprostol

[Completed by PPLM Investigator] - Qualitative Research 

This study identified barriers associated with decision-making in patients seeking termination of later second-trimester pregnancies.  Reasons identified included difficulty deciding to terminate, financial barriers to care, and patient realizing recently they were pregnant. Though financial barriers could be addressed, results indicate that many risk factors identified are nonmodifiable.  

Key words:
Abortion, Abortion Access, Abortion Stigma, Decision Making

[Completed by PPLM Investigator] - Descriptive Research 

In this paper, the implications of terms used to describe abortion are discussed. Writers argue that terms such as "elective abortion" misrepresent the complexity and nuance surrounding patients' decision to undergo abortion procedures and should be eliminated from medical conversation in order to ensure that clinicians are able to view the procedure objectively. 

Key words:
Abortion, Abortion Stigma, Medical Education 

[Completed by PPLM] - Retrospective Study 

The interviews of US medical student applicants to obstetrics and gynecology residency programs were assessed for language use when discussing abortion. It was found that the use of the term "elective" was generally not used in accordance to its medical definition and instead suggested a level of stigma attached to abortions that were not medically indicated for neither patient nor fetus. Results support the need to improve language surrounding abortion care to reduce stigma and improve care. 

Key words:
Abortion, Abortion Stigma, Medical Education