Shorter time interval treatments for early medical abortions: a mixed methods research approach

Purpose This dissertation focuses at assessing the efficacy of shorter time intervals in the treatment of medical abortions along with the use of various follow up methods. Methods This initial part of dissertation was carried out as an extensive study of literature, followed by observational study on shorter time intervals and follow up methods for the feasibility of the study. The main dissertation met its research aims through an RCT of 121 women comparing shorter to standard time intervals and assessing the various follow up methods at the end of 2 weeks. The qualitative component of the study was achieved by conducting in-depth interviews of women undergoing medical abortion on various aspects of medical abortions with emphasis on shorter time intervals and follow up. Findings This research produced a number of key findings: the RCT showed that both treatments have equal efficacy and acceptability with minor differences in their side effects however the sample size was small to generalise the findings; the follow up methods showed varied responses with preference to confirmatory investigations at 2 weeks follow up. Conclusions The main conclusions drawn from this research were that shorter time intervals can be offered as an alternative to standard treatment intervals in well informed women, however a larger RCT is needed. In order to provide these treatments as outpatient robust follow up methods will need to be incorporated into the abortion services