Medical abortion

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Medical abortion (using mifepristone followed by misoprostol to end an early pregnancy) is a more accessible and less invasive option than surgical termination and can be provided in primary care settings. However, few general practitioners (GPs) currently provide this service, and there remains great inequity in access to abortion across Australia, particularly for young women and those living in rural and remote area. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to help Australian GPs better understand the practical and legal considerations of providing medical abortion to patients. DISCUSSION: Provision of medical abortion is well within the scope of community general practice and improves the comprehensiveness of women's sexual and reproductive health services that GPs can deliver. This article will help GPs to better understand the process involved in providing medical abortion, including the practical considerations for patients; be better equipped to support patients who have decided that medical abortion is an appropriate choice for them; and make an informed decision as to whether to become a provider of medical abortion.