Acceptability and feasibility of mifepristone medical abortion in the early first trimester in Azerbaijan

Abstract

Objective: To examine the acceptability and feasibility of early medical abortion using mifepristone and misoprostol in Azerbaijan.

Methods: A total of 863 women in Baku and two regions of Azerbaijan who sought termination of gestations up to 63 days were enrolled in the study. In the capital, women swallowed 200 mg mifepristone in the clinic and were given the option of taking 800 μg misoprostol buccally either at the clinic or at home 24-48 hours later. In the regions, women were given the option of taking both drugs at home. Follow-up visits were to take place two weeks after mifepristone administration to determine abortion status.

Results: Seventy-four percent of women in the regions chose home administration of mifepristone, and 92% of women from all locations selected misoprostol home administration. Ninety-seven percent of women had complete abortions, and 97% were satisfied or very satisfied with the method. The vast majority of participants preferred medical abortion for a future procedure (96%). Nearly all women (98%) would recommend medical abortion for pregnancy termination to a friend.

Conclusion: Mifepristone-misoprostol medical abortion with the option of home administration of both drugs is an acceptable and feasible option for women in Azerbaijan.

Keywords: Azerbaijan; First trimester pregnancy; Medical abortion; Mifepristone; Misoprostol.