Medical management of non-viable early first trimester pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: To compare the efficacy of intramuscular methotrexate plus vaginal misoprostol to vaginal misoprostol alone in completing abortion in women with non-viable early first trimester pregnancy.

Method: Twenty-one women with non-viable pregnancy up to 49 days gestation were randomized to receive intramuscular methotrexate, followed 2 days later by vaginal misoprostol or misoprostol alone. We also collected patient satisfaction information.

Result: Complete abortion occurred in all 12 (100%) women in the combined group and eight of nine (89%, RR = 1.13, CI 0.89-1.42) women in the misoprostol only group. Of the women, 75% rated their experience as good and would choose medical management again.

Conclusion: Either methotrexate plus misoprostol or misoprostol alone effectively completed abortion in women with non-viable early pregnancy and represent acceptable medical alternatives to surgery or expectant management.