Safe abortion

In addition to non-specialist and specialist doctors, a wide range of health worker cadres – such as auxiliary nurses, auxiliary nurse midwives, nurses, midwives, associate/ advanced associate clinicians, pharmacists and doctors of complementary medicine – can provide various aspects of medical abortion services.

Ultrasound scanning is not routinely required for provision of abortion. A physical examination to assess uterine size, assessment of last menstrual period and recognition of symptoms of pregnancy are usually adequate.

Unsafe abortions can be prevented if done by an individual who has the necessary training and done in an environment conforming to minimal medical standards. The proportion of unsafe abortions are significantly higher in developing countries than developed countries. This includes countries with highly restrictive abortion laws.

According to the WHO 2018 guidance on Medical Management of Abortion, when using the combination mifepristone and misoprostol regimen, the medical abortion process can be self-managed for pregnancies up to 12 weeks of gestation, including the ability to take the medications at home, without direct supervision of a health-care provider.