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Alashek WA, Ali SA. Satisfaction with telemedicine use during COVID-19 pandemic in the UK: a systematic review. Libyan J Med 2024; 19:2301829. [PMID: 38197179 PMCID: PMC10783830 DOI: 10.1080/19932820.2024.2301829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine became a fundamental part of healthcare provision during COVID-19 pandemic. An evaluation of telemedicine-associated satisfaction helps the service develop more viable applications. This review evaluated the satisfaction of healthcare users and providers and their willingness to use this modality in future.Methods: The study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A search on empirical articles published between March 2020 and December 2022 was performed on 'PubMed' and 'Scopus' databases. Findings that reported on satisfaction of patients, families and caregivers as well as clinicians were extracted and analysed. Quality of included studies was assessed. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, the review included 27 eligible studies.Results: Data was found from a variety of emergency and non-emergency departments of primary, secondary, and specialised healthcare. Almost all studies were undertaken within the NHS. There were many tools that measured satisfaction. Satisfaction was high among recipients of healthcare, scoring 9-10 on a scale of 0-10 or ranging from 73.3% to 100%. Convenience was rated high in every specialty examined. Satisfaction of clinicians was high throughout the specialities despite connection failure and concerns about confidentiality of information. Nonetheless, studies reported perception of increased barriers to accessing care and inequalities for vulnerable patients especially in older people. In general, willingness to use telemedicine in future was high in the recipients as well as the providers of healthcare.Conclusion: COVID-19 pandemic has transformed healthcare in the UK and promoted a revolution in telemedicine applications. Satisfaction was high among both recipient and provider of healthcare. Telemedicine managed to provide a continued care throughout the pandemic while maintaining social distance. The current review presented commendable evidence to encourage different specialities to engage in telemedicine application.
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Affiliation(s)
- WA. Alashek
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - SA. Ali
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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2
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McMann TJ, Haupt MR, Le N, Meurice ME, Li J, Cuomo RE, Mackey TK. Abortion pill marketing and sourcing on twitter following Dobbs v. Jackson supreme court ruling. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2024; 29:139-144. [PMID: 38780176 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2024.2354868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines abortion-related discourse on Twitter (X) pre-and post-Dobbs v. Jackson ruling, which eliminated the constitutional right to abortion. STUDY DESIGN We used a custom data collection tool to collect tweets directly from Twitter using abortion-related keywords. We used the BERTopic language model and examined the top 30 retweeted and top 30 textually similar tweets from relevant topic clusters using an inductive coding approach. We also conducted statistical testing to assess potential associations between abortion themes. RESULTS 166,799 unique tweets were collected from December 2020-December 2022. 464 unique tweets were coded for abortion-related themes with 154 identified as relevant. Of these, 66 tweets marketed abortion pills, 17 tweets were identified as offering consultations, and 91 tweets were relevant to self-managed abortion. All marketing and consultation tweets were posted post-Dobbs decision and 7 (7.69%) of self-managed tweets were posted pre-Dobbs versus 84 (92.30%) posted post-Dobbs. A positive association was found between tweets offering a medical consultation with tweets marketing abortion pills and discussing self-managed abortion. CONCLUSION This study detected online marketing of abortion pills, consultations and discussions about self-managed abortion following the Dobbs v. Jackson ruling. These results provide more context to the type of abortion-related information that is available online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiana J McMann
- Global Health Program, Department of Anthropology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Global Health Policy and Data Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- S-3 Research, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Michael R Haupt
- Global Health Policy and Data Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cognitive Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nicolette Le
- Global Health Program, Department of Anthropology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Global Health Policy and Data Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Marielle E Meurice
- Division of Complex Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Raphael E Cuomo
- Global Health Policy and Data Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- S-3 Research, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego - School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tim K Mackey
- Global Health Program, Department of Anthropology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Global Health Policy and Data Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- S-3 Research, San Diego, CA, USA
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3
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Morris N, Biggs MA, Baba CF, Seymour JW, White K, Grossman D. Interest in and Support for Alternative Models of Medication Abortion Provision Among Patients Seeking Abortion in the United States. Womens Health Issues 2024; 34:381-390. [PMID: 38658288 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medication abortion is safe and effective, but restrictions still limit patients from accessing this method. Alternative models of medication abortion provision, namely advance provision, over-the-counter (OTC), and online, could help improve access to care for some, although there is limited evidence about abortion patients' interest in these models. METHODS Between 2017 and 2019, we administered a cross-sectional survey to abortion patients at 45 clinics across 15 U.S. states to explore their interest in and support for advance provision, OTC, and online abortion access. We assessed relationships between sociodemographic characteristics and interest in and support for each model using bivariate logistic regressions and present perceived advantages and disadvantages of each model, as described by a subset of participants. RESULTS Among 1,965 people enrolled, 1,759 (90%) initiated the survey. Interest in and support for advance provision was highest (72% and 82%, respectively), followed by OTC (63% and 72%) and online access (57% and 70%). In bivariate analyses, non-Hispanic Black and Asian/Pacific Islander respondents expressed lower interest and support for the online model and Alaska Native/Native American respondents expressed higher interest in an OTC model, as compared with white respondents. Among 439 participants naming advantages and disadvantages of each model, the most common advantages included convenience and having the abortion earlier. The most common disadvantages were not seeing a provider first and possibly taking pills incorrectly. CONCLUSIONS Although most abortion patients expressed interest in and support for alternative models of medication abortion provision, variation in support across race/ethnicity highlights a need to ensure that abortion care service models meet the needs and preferences of all patients, particularly people from historically underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Morris
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California.
| | - M Antonia Biggs
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
| | - C Finley Baba
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
| | - Jane W Seymour
- Collaborative for Reproductive Equity, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Kari White
- Resound Research for Reproductive Health, Austin, Texas
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
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4
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Starosta A, Harris J, Gariepy A, Pathy S, Cron J. Medication abortion for adolescents in the United States: Strengthening the role of pediatric primary care providers. PERSPECTIVES ON SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 56:76-84. [PMID: 38661101 DOI: 10.1111/psrh.12264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent legal changes have led to mounting abortion restrictions in the United States (US), disproportionately impacting adolescents, who already face multifaceted barriers to abortion care. Informed by the framework of reproductive justice, adolescents who become pregnant deserve comprehensive, unbiased, and non-judgmental pregnancy options counseling, inclusive of all choices for pregnancy continuation and termination. Pediatric primary care providers are at the front lines of caring for adolescent patients' reproductive health needs and frequently diagnose pregnancy, provide pregnancy options counseling, and assist patients in accessing abortion care. They are uniquely poised to provide this care given their trusted, ongoing relationships with adolescent patients and their families, and their values of deep respect for adolescents' individuality and autonomy. METHODS In this commentary, we aim to describe the medical and legal landscape of adolescent abortion access in the US and provide recommendations to support pediatric primary care providers' involvement in abortion care. We focus on medication abortion, as the provision of medication abortion has the potential to encompass a broad group of clinicians, including pediatric primary care providers. RESULTS We discuss the importance of providing options counseling to adolescents within the reproductive justice framework, improving abortion education for pediatric providers, and expanding access to abortion care by supporting providers at an institutional level if they opt to provide medication abortions. CONCLUSION In light of the current legal landscape, the role of pediatric primary care providers in ensuring adolescent access to abortion care is ever more critical. Although many pediatric and adolescent providers already provide this important care, we, a team of obstetricians/gynecologists and adolescent medicine physicians, echo prior calls for improved training and institutional support for pediatric providers to counsel about and provide abortion-related care. We hope that highlighting the role of pediatric providers in this sphere will help center the needs of adolescent patients and help them fulfill their family planning goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel Starosta
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Julen Harris
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Aileen Gariepy
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Complex Family Planning, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shefali Pathy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Julia Cron
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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Seymour JW, Ruggiero S, Ranker L, Thompson TA. Experiences with and unmet needs for medication abortion support: A qualitative study with US abortion support providers. PERSPECTIVES ON SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 56:116-123. [PMID: 38666706 DOI: 10.1111/psrh.12263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Quality abortion care must be person-centered. Although academic literature has focused on full-spectrum and abortion doulas supporting instrumentation abortion (also referred to as procedural abortion) clients, clients undergoing medication abortion remain understudied and may have unique needs. We aimed to understand United States (US) abortion support providers' perceptions of medication abortion clients' support needs by exploring which needs they address, which needs remain unmet, and how remote support provision might help address client needs. METHODOLOGY Between April and October 2018, we conducted 60- to 90-min semi-structured, in-depth interviews by telephone with medication abortion support providers. The interviews focused on their experiences providing support to medication abortion clients in the US. We used a deductive thematic analysis approach. RESULTS We interviewed 16 abortion support providers affiliated with nine US-based organizations. Six participants provided in-person support to medication abortion clients, five provided remote support, and five provided both remote and in-person support. Both in-person and remote providers described offering support that addressed clients' informational, emotional, physical, spiritual, and logistical needs. Through participant narratives, we identified interwoven benefits and challenges to remote support care provision. Participants highlighted that most medication abortion clients did not have a support provider. DISCUSSION Participants revealed that abortion support providers, including remote support providers, can be a critical component of high-quality abortion care provision. More work is needed to ensure all abortion clients have access to support services as the abortion landscape in the US continues to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane W Seymour
- Collaborative for Reproductive Equity, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | - Lynsie Ranker
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Pasha AS, Sonik R. Their Body, Our Choice: Organized Medicine's Responsibility to De-medicalize Abortion. Health Hum Rights 2024; 26:137-142. [PMID: 38933232 PMCID: PMC11197858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amirala S Pasha
- Assistant professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Roma Sonik
- Medical student at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, United States
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7
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Aiken ARA, Wells ES, Gomperts R, Scott JG. Provision of Medications for Self-Managed Abortion Before and After the Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization Decision. JAMA 2024; 331:1558-1564. [PMID: 38526865 PMCID: PMC10964154 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2024.4266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Importance The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization overturned the right to choose abortion in the US, with at least 16 states subsequently implementing abortion bans or 6-week gestational limits. Prior research indicates that in the 6 months following Dobbs, approximately 32 360 fewer abortions were provided within the US formal health care setting. However, trends in the provision of medications for self-managed abortion outside the formal health care setting have not been studied. Objective To determine whether the provision of medications for self-managed abortion outside the formal health care setting increased in the 6 months after Dobbs. Design, Setting, and Participants Cross-sectional study using data from sources that provided abortion medications outside the formal health care setting to people in the US between March 1 and December 31, 2022, including online telemedicine organizations, community networks, and online vendors. Using a hierarchical bayesian model, we imputed missing values from sources not providing data. We estimated the change in provision of medications for self-managed abortion after the Dobbs decision. We then estimated actual use of these medications by accounting for the possibility that not all provided medications are used by recipients. Exposure Abortion restrictions following the Dobbs decision. Main Outcomes and Measures Provision and use of medications for a self-managed abortion. Results In the 6-month post-Dobbs period (July 1 to December 31, 2022), the total number of provisions of medications for self-managed abortion increased by 27 838 (95% credible interval [CrI], 26 374-29 175) vs what would have been expected based on pre-Dobbs levels. Excluding imputed data changes the results only slightly (27 145; 95% CrI, 25 747-28 246). Accounting for nonuse of medications, actual self-managed medication abortions increased by an estimated 26 055 (95% CrI, 24 739-27 245) vs what would have been expected had the Dobbs decision not occurred. Conclusions and Relevance Provision of medications for self-managed abortions increased in the 6 months following the Dobbs decision. Results suggest that a substantial number of abortion seekers accessed services despite the implementation of state-level bans and restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - James G. Scott
- McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin
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8
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Johnson DM, Aiken ARA, Thompson TA. Telehealth enables safe medication abortion in shifting health and legal contexts. Nat Med 2024; 30:946-947. [PMID: 38491153 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02876-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Abigail R A Aiken
- LBJ School of Public Affairs, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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9
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Upadhyay UD, Koenig LR, Meckstroth K, Ko J, Valladares ES, Biggs MA. Effectiveness and safety of telehealth medication abortion in the USA. Nat Med 2024; 30:1191-1198. [PMID: 38361123 PMCID: PMC11031403 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02834-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Telehealth abortion has become critical to addressing surges in demand in states where abortion remains legal but evidence on its effectiveness and safety is limited. California Home Abortion by Telehealth (CHAT) is a prospective study that follows pregnant people who obtained medication abortion via telehealth from three virtual clinics operating in 20 states and Washington, DC between April 2021 and January 2022. Individuals were screened using a standardized no-test protocol, primarily relying on their medical history to assess medical eligibility. We assessed effectiveness, defined as complete abortion after 200 mg mifepristone and 1,600 μg misoprostol (or lower) without additional intervention; safety was measured by the absence of serious adverse events. We estimated rates using multivariable logistic regression and multiple imputation to account for missing data. Among 6,034 abortions, 97.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 97.2-98.1%) were complete without subsequent known intervention or ongoing pregnancy after the initial treatment. Overall, 99.8% (99.6-99.9%) of abortions were not followed by serious adverse events. In total, 0.25% of patients experienced a serious abortion-related adverse event, 0.16% were treated for an ectopic pregnancy and 1.3% abortions were followed by emergency department visits. There were no differences in effectiveness or safety between synchronous and asynchronous models of care. Telehealth medication abortion is effective, safe and comparable to published rates of in-person medication abortion care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ushma D Upadhyay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Leah R Koenig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karen Meckstroth
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Ko
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - M Antonia Biggs
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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10
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Arey W, Lerma K, White K. Self-diagnosing the end of pregnancy after medication abortion. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024; 26:405-420. [PMID: 37211833 PMCID: PMC10663384 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2212298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study conducted between November 2020 and March 2021 in the US state of Mississippi examines the experiences of 25 people who obtained medication abortion at the state's only abortion facility. We conducted in-depth interviews with participants after their abortions until concept saturation was reached, and then analysed the content using inductive and deductive analysis. We assessed how people use embodied knowledge about their individual physical experiences such as pregnancy symptoms, a missed period, bleeding, and visual examinations of pregnancy tissue to identify the beginning and end of pregnancy. We compared this to how people use biomedical knowledge such as pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and clinical examinations to confirm their self-diagnoses. We found that most people felt confident that they could identify the beginning and end of pregnancy through embodied knowledge, especially when combined with the use of home pregnancy tests that confirmed their symptoms, experiences, and visual evidence. All participants concerned about symptoms sought follow-up care at a medical facility, whereas people who felt confident of the successful end of the pregnancy did so less often. These findings have implications for settings of restricted abortion access that have limited options for follow-up care after medication abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Arey
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Klaira Lerma
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Kari White
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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11
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Kheyfets A, Dhaurali S, Feyock P, Khan F, Lockley A, Miller B, Cohen L, Anwar E, Amutah-Onukagha N. The impact of hostile abortion legislation on the United States maternal mortality crisis: a call for increased abortion education. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1291668. [PMID: 38115843 PMCID: PMC10728320 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1291668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing restrictive abortion policies nationwide and the Supreme Court decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization place increasing barriers to abortion access in the United States. These restrictions disproportionately affect low-income people of color, immigrants, and non-English speakers, and have the potential to exacerbate already existing racial inequities in maternal and neonatal outcomes. The United States is facing a Black maternal health crisis where Black birthing people are more than twice as likely to experience maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity compared to White birthing people. Restrictions creating geographic, transportation, and financial barriers to obtaining an abortion can result in increased rates of maternal death and adverse outcomes across all groups but especially among Black birthing people. Restrictive abortion laws in certain states will decrease already limited training opportunities in abortion care for medical professionals, despite the existing abortion provider shortage. There is an immediate need for federal legislation codifying broad abortion care access into law and expanding access to abortion training across medical education. This commentary explores the impact of restrictive abortion laws on the Black maternal health crisis through multiple pathways in a logic model. By identifying current barriers to abortion education in medical school and residency, we created a list of action items to expand abortion education and access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kheyfets
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shubhecchha Dhaurali
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Paige Feyock
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Farinaz Khan
- Collective Energy for Nurturing Training in Reproductive and Sexual Health (CENTRS Health), Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - April Lockley
- Collective Energy for Nurturing Training in Reproductive and Sexual Health (CENTRS Health), Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Brenna Miller
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lauren Cohen
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Eimaan Anwar
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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McMahon E, Fetters T, Jive NL, Mpoyi M. Perils and promise providing information on sexual and reproductive health via the Nurse Nisa WhatsApp chatbot in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2023; 31:2235796. [PMID: 37548472 PMCID: PMC10408565 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2023.2235796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nadia Lobo Jive
- Research Associate, Ipas, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Mike Mpoyi
- Manager, Ipas, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
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13
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Brown C, Neerland CE, Weinfurter EV, Saftner MA. The Provision of Abortion Care via Telehealth in the United States: A Rapid Review. J Midwifery Womens Health 2023; 68:744-758. [PMID: 38069588 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The recent Supreme Court decision Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health that has overruled Roe v. Wade has resulted in severe limitations of abortion access throughout the United States. Telehealth has been put forth as one solution for improving access for reproductive health care, including abortion services. Telehealth has demonstrated safety and efficacy in several health care disciplines; however, its use for abortion care and services has not been explored and synthesized. METHODS As part of a larger review on telehealth and general reproductive health, our team identified a moderate amount of literature on telehealth and abortion care. We conducted a rapid review searching for eligible studies in MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL. Information was extracted from each included study to explore 4 key areas of inquiry: (1) clinical effectiveness, (2) patient and provider experiences, (3) barriers and facilitators, and (4) the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. RESULTS Twenty-five studies on the use of telehealth for providing abortion services published between 2011 and 2022 were included. Telehealth for medical abortion increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and was found to be safe and clinically effective, with high patient satisfaction. Overall, telehealth improved access and removed barriers for patients including lack of transportation. Legal restrictions in certain states were cited as the primary barriers. Studies contained limited information on the perspectives and experiences of health care providers and diverse patient populations. DISCUSSION Abortion care via telehealth is safe and effective with high satisfaction and may also remove barriers to care including transportation and fear. Removing restrictions on telehealth for the provision of abortion services may further improve access to care and promote greater health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Brown
- University of Minnesota School of Nursing, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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14
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Wulf S, Vinekar K, Dehlendorf C, Srinivasulu S, Steinauer J, Carvajal DN. Implications of Overturning Roe v Wade on Abortion Training in US Family Medicine Residency Programs. Ann Fam Med 2023; 21:545-548. [PMID: 38012041 PMCID: PMC10681702 DOI: 10.1370/afm.3042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In June 2022, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade, opening the door to state-level abortion bans. By August 2023, 17 states banned abortion or instituted early gestational age bans. We performed an analysis to assess the proportion of accredited US family medicine residency programs and trainees in states with abortion restrictions. Twenty-nine percent of family medicine residency programs (n = 201) and residents (n = 3,930) are in states with bans or very restrictive policies. Family medicine residency programs must optimize training and exposure to abortion within their contexts, so graduates are able to care for patients seeking abortions or needing follow-up care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Wulf
- Person-Centered Reproductive Health Program, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Kavita Vinekar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Christine Dehlendorf
- Person-Centered Reproductive Health Program, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Jody Steinauer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Diana N Carvajal
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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15
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Upadhyay UD, Coplon L, Atrio JM. Society of Family Planning Committee Statement: Abortion nomenclature. Contraception 2023; 126:110094. [PMID: 37331458 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2023.110094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ushma D Upadhyay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | | | - Jessica M Atrio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montefiore Hospital and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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16
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Stotland NL. Reproductive Rights and Women's Mental Health. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2023; 46:607-619. [PMID: 37500254 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2023.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive rights, including access to comprehensive reproductive health care, are essential to the well-being of women and society. The Dobbs decision of the US Supreme Court has greatly exacerbated the confusion, the stress, and the loss of services. Psychiatrists need to know and communicate the strong scientific evidence of the advantages of sex education, contraception, abortion, and bodily autonomy and to help patients process their feelings and make informed decisions about their own care.
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Ehrenreich K, Baba CF, Raifman S, Grossman D. Perspectives on Alternative Models of Medication Abortion Provision Among Abortion Patients in the United States. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:481-488. [PMID: 37105836 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Restrictions on the availability of medication abortion are a barrier to accessing early abortion. People seeking medication abortion may be interested in obtaining the medications through alternative models. The purpose of this study was to explore patient perspectives on obtaining abortion medications in advance of pregnancy or over the counter (OTC). STUDY DESIGN Between October 2017 and August 2018, we conducted 30 in-depth interviews with abortion patients who indicated support for alternative models. We recruited patients from 10 abortion clinics in states with a range of policy environments. We analyzed interviews using inductive and deductive iterative techniques. RESULTS Participants identified logistical benefits of these alternative models, including eliminating travel to a clinic and multiple appointments, and increased privacy around decision-making. Participants were interested in advance provision for its convenience and the sense of preparedness that would come with having the pills available at home, yet some had concerns about the pills being found or stolen. Privacy was the key factor considered for OTC access, including both the privacy benefits of avoiding a clinic and the concern of having one's privacy compromised within the community if purchasing the medications in public. CONCLUSIONS People who have previously had a medication abortion are interested in alternative methods of provision for reasons concerning convenience, privacy, and avoiding burdens related to hostile policy environments, such as long travel distances to clinics and multiple appointments. Concerns around these models were primarily safety concerns for young people. Further research is needed to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility of these alternative models of providing medication abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Ehrenreich
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California.
| | - C Finley Baba
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
| | - Sarah Raifman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, California
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18
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Baker CN. History and Politics of Medication Abortion in the United States and the Rise of Telemedicine and Self-Managed Abortion. JOURNAL OF HEALTH POLITICS, POLICY AND LAW 2023; 48:485-510. [PMID: 36693178 DOI: 10.1215/03616878-10449941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This article examines the decades-long campaign to increase access to abortion pills in the United States, including advocates' work to win US Food and Drug Administration approval of mifepristone and misoprostol for abortion, the continuing restrictions on mifepristone, and the multiple strategies advocates have pursued to challenge these restrictions, including lobbying the FDA to remove the restrictions, obtaining a limited research exemption from FDA restrictions, and suing the FDA during the COVID-19 pandemic. The article pays particular attention to the influence of research conducted on the safety and efficacy of medication abortion as well as research on the impact of increased availability of abortion pills through telemedicine during the pandemic. The article also addresses self-managed abortion, wherein people obtain and use mifepristone and/or misoprostol outside the formal health care system, and it documents the growing network of organizations providing logistical, medical, and legal support to people self-managing abortion. The article concludes with reflections on the role abortion pills might play in the post-Roe era amid increasingly divergent abortion access trends across different regions of the United States.
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Treder KM, Amutah-Onukagha N, White KO. Abortion Bans Will Exacerbate Already Severe Racial Inequities in Maternal Mortality. Womens Health Issues 2023:S1049-3867(23)00098-1. [PMID: 37301725 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Treder
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Pl, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Katharine O White
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Pl, Boston, Massachusetts
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Jain D, Davies M, Perritt J, Blasdell J. The Provision of Medication Abortion Care via Telehealth. Womens Health Issues 2023:S1049-3867(23)00099-3. [PMID: 37301724 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Divya Jain
- Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Cambridge, Massachusetts; University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri.
| | - MiQuel Davies
- Physicians for Reproductive Health, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Jamila Perritt
- Physicians for Reproductive Health, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Jennifer Blasdell
- Physicians for Reproductive Health, Washington, District of Columbia
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LANTZ PAULAM, MICHELMORE KATHERINE, MONIZ MICHELLEH, MMEJE OKEOMA, AXINN WILLIAMG, SPECTOR‐BAGDADY KAYTE. Abortion Policy in the United States: The New Legal Landscape and Its Threats to Health and Socioeconomic Well-Being. Milbank Q 2023; 101:283-301. [PMID: 36960973 PMCID: PMC10126955 DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.12614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Policy Points The historic 2022 Supreme Court Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization decision has created a new public policy landscape in the United States that will restrict access to legal and safe abortion for a significant proportion of the population. Policies restricting access to abortion bring with them significant threats and harms to health by delaying or denying essential evidence-based medical care and increasing the risks for adverse maternal and infant outcomes, including death. Restrictive abortion policies will increase the number of children born into and living in poverty, increase the number of families experiencing serious financial instability and hardship, increase racial inequities in socioeconomic security, and put significant additional pressure on under-resourced social welfare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - MICHELLE H. MONIZ
- University of Michigan
- Michigan Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - OKEOMA MMEJE
- University of Michigan
- Michigan Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Roberts SCM, Zaugg C, Grossman D. Health care provider reporting practices related to self-managed abortion. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:136. [PMID: 36973776 PMCID: PMC10045784 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02266-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care providers reporting patients to government authorities is a main way people attempting self-managed abortion (SMA) become exposed to legal risks. Little is known about health care provider decision-making regarding SMA reporting. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 37 clinicians who provided care in hospital-based obstetrics or emergency departments (13 obstetricians/gynecologists, two advance practice registered nurses providing obstetrics care, 12 emergency medicine physicians, and 10 family medicine physicians) throughout the United States. The interview guide asked participants to describe one or more cases of caring for a patient who may have attempted SMA and about related reporting decisions. We coded responses to answer two questions: What comes to mind for health care providers when asked to think about experiences caring for a patient who may have attempted SMA? Based on health care provider experiences, how might people who providers suspect may have attempted SMA end up reported? RESULTS About half of participants had cared for someone who may have attempted SMA for that pregnancy. Only two mentioned SMA with misoprostol. Most participants described cases where they were unsure whether the patient had attempted to end their pregnancy on purpose. In most instances, participants mentioned that that the possibility of reporting never occurred to them nor came up. In some cases, participants described a reporting "adjacent" practice - e.g. beginning processes that could lead to substance use, domestic violence, or self-injury/suicide-related reports - or considered reporting related to a perceived need to report abortion complications. In two cases, hospital staff reported to the police and/or Child Protective Services related to the SMA attempt. These involved passing of a fetus after 20 weeks outside the hospital and a domestic violence incident. CONCLUSION Reporting patients who may have attempted SMA may occur via provider perception of a need to report abortion complications and fetal demises, particularly at later gestations, and other reporting requirements (e.g. substance use, domestic violence, child maltreatment, suicide/self-harm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C M Roberts
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA.
| | - Claudia Zaugg
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
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Lerma K, Blumenthal PD. Interest in advance provision of abortion pills: a national survey of potential users in the USA. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023:bmjsrh-2022-201775. [PMID: 36882325 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2022-201775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess interest in clinician-administered advance provision of abortion pills among potential users in the USA. METHODS Using social media advertisements, we recruited people living in the USA who were aged 18-45 years and assigned female at birth, who were not pregnant or planning pregnancy, for an online survey on reproductive health experiences and attitudes. We explored interest in advance provision of abortion pills, participant characteristics, including demographics and pregnancy history, contraceptive use, abortion knowledge and comfort, and healthcare system distrust. We used descriptive statistics to assess interest in advance provision, and ordinal regression modelling to evaluate differences in interest controlling for age, pregnancy history, contraceptive use, familiarity and comfort with medication abortion, and healthcare system distrust, reporting adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). RESULTS From January-February 2022, we recruited 634 diverse respondents from 48 states, among whom 65% were interested, 12% neutral, and 23% disinterested in advance provision. There were no differences among interest groups by US region, race/ethnicity, or income. In the model, variables associated with interest included being aged 18-24 years (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.0 to 3.4) versus 35-45 years, using a tier 1 (permanent or long-acting reversible) or tier 2 (short-acting hormonal) contraceptive method (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.1, and aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.9, respectively) versus no contraception, being familiar or comfortable with the medication abortion process (aOR 4.2, 95% CI 2.8 to 6.2, and aOR 17.1, 95% CI 10.0 to 29.0, respectively), and having high healthcare system distrust (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.0 to 4.4) versus low distrust. CONCLUSION As abortion access becomes more constrained, strategies are needed to ensure timely access. Advance provision is of interest to the majority of those surveyed and warrants further policy and logistical exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaira Lerma
- Population Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Paul D Blumenthal
- Division of Family Planning Services and Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Verma N, Grossman D. Self-Managed Abortion in the United States. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2023; 12:70-75. [PMID: 37305376 PMCID: PMC9989574 DOI: 10.1007/s13669-023-00354-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review aims to provide up-to-date information about self-managed abortion in the USA. Recent Findings Evidence indicates that there is growing demand for self-managed abortion in the USA as obstacles to facility-based care increase, especially since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Self-managed abortion with medications is safe and effective. Summary Based on a nationally representative survey, the lifetime prevalence of self-managed abortion in the USA in 2017 was estimated to be 7%. People experiencing barriers to abortion care, including people of color, people with lower incomes, people in states that have restrictive abortion laws, and those living farther from facilities providing abortion care are more likely to attempt self-managed abortion. While people may use a range of methods to self-manage abortion, there is growing use of safe and effective medications, including mifepristone used together with misoprostol and misoprostol used alone; use of traumatic and dangerous methods is rare. While many people attempt to self-manage their abortion because of barriers to facility-based care, others have a preference for self-care because it is convenient, accessible, and private. While the medical risks of self-managed abortion may be few, the legal risks may be significant. Sixty-one people have been criminally investigated or arrested between 2000 and 2020 for allegedly self-managing their abortion or helping someone else do so. Clinicians play an important role in providing evidence-based information and care to patients considering or attempting self-managed abortion, as well as minimizing legal risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Verma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
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Miller M, Lindley AR, West JD, Thayer EK, Godfrey EM. Does lower use of academic affiliation by university faculty in top U.S. newspapers contribute to misinformation about abortion? JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 16:7-20. [PMID: 36919808 DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2022.2150166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND University faculty are considered trusted sources of information to disseminate accurate information to the public that abortion is a common, safe and necessary medical health care service. However, misinformation persists about abortion's alleged dangers, commonality, and medical necessity. METHODS Systematic review of popular media articles related to abortion, gun control (an equally controversial topic), and cigarette use (a more neutral topic) published in top U.S. newspapers between January 2015 and July 2020 using bivariate analysis and logistic regression to compare disclosure of university affiliation among experts in each topic area. RESULTS We included 41 abortion, 102 gun control, and 130 smoking articles, which consisted of 304 distinct media mentions of university-affiliated faculty. Articles with smoking and gun control faculty experts had statistically more affiliations mentioned (90%, n = 195 and 88%, n = 159, respectively) than abortion faculty experts (77%, n = 54) (p = 0.02). The probability of faculty disclosing university affiliation was similar between smoking and gun control (p = 0.73), but between smoking and abortion was significantly less (Ave Marginal Effects - 0.13, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Fewer faculty members disclose their university affiliation in top U.S. newspapers when discussing abortion. Lack of academic disclosure may paradoxically make these faculty appear less 'legitimate.' This leads to misinformation, branding abortion as a 'choice,' suggesting it is an unessential medical service. With the recent U.S. Supreme Court landmark decision, Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, and subsequent banning of abortion in many U.S. states, faculty will probably be even less likely to disclose their university affiliation in the media than in the past.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison Miller
- Medical Student, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alexa R Lindley
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Jevin D West
- Information School, Co-Founder of the Center for an Informed Public, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Erin K Thayer
- Department of Family Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Emily M Godfrey
- Departments of Family Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Johnson DM, Michels-Gualtieri M, Gomperts R, Aiken ARA. Safety and effectiveness of self-managed abortion using misoprostol alone acquired from an online telemedicine service in the United States. PERSPECTIVES ON SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 55:4-11. [PMID: 36744631 DOI: 10.1363/psrh.12219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate self-reported outcomes and serious adverse events following self-managed medication abortion using misoprostol alone provided from an online service. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a retrospective record review of self-managed abortion outcomes using misoprostol obtained from Aid Access, an online telemedicine organization serving United States (US) residents, between June 1, 2020, and June 30, 2020. The main outcomes were the proportion of people who reported ending their pregnancy without instrumentation intervention and the proportion who received treatment for serious adverse events. RESULTS During the study period, 1016 people received prescriptions for misoprostol. We obtained follow-up information for 610 (60%) of whom 568 confirmed use of the medication and 42 confirmed non-use. When taking the medication, 96% were at or less than 10 weeks' gestation and 4% were more than 10 weeks. Overall, 88% (95% CI: 84.6-90.2) reported successfully ending their pregnancy without instrumentation intervention. Of the 568 who took the misoprostol, 12 (2%) reported experiencing one or more serious adverse events and 20 (4%) reported experiencing a symptom of a potential complication. CONCLUSIONS Self-managed medication abortion using misoprostol provided by an online telemedicine service has a high rate of effectiveness and a low rate of serious adverse events. Outcomes compare favorably to other service delivery models using a similar regimen. As mifepristone continues to be over-regulated and the 2022 US Supreme Court ruling allows states to severely restrict access to in-clinic abortion care, this regimen is a promising option for self-managed abortion in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana M Johnson
- LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Abigail R A Aiken
- LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Shochet T, Berro Pizzarossa L, Larrea S, Blum J, Jelinska K, Comendant R, Sagaidac I. Self-managed abortion via the internet: Analysis of one year of service delivery data from Women Help Women. Gates Open Res 2023; 7:41. [PMID: 37123048 PMCID: PMC10130357 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.14369.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To better comprehend the demand for online medication abortion and to inform service delivery practice, we conducted an analysis of Women Help Women (WHW) service delivery statistics. The primary goals were to understand their user profile, evaluate self-reported outcomes and use of other medical services, and assess the overall experience both with the abortion itself and with the counseling and care provided by WHW. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated user characteristics, abortion outcomes, and acceptability of both the medication abortion and WHW’s services, using consultation data and corresponding evaluation data from a one-year period. For users who did not complete the evaluation form, WHW staff reviewed email correspondences to identify key outcomes. Results: From August 2016-July 2017, 3,307 individuals received abortion pills from WHW. Users were geographically located in thirty countries and correspondence was conducted in seven languages. Most reported their gestational age to be less than eight weeks. Of the 2,295 who took the pills and provided outcome information, almost all (99.1%, n=2275) reported that they were no longer pregnant. The majority (84.1%, n=1576/1875) used symptoms to confirm outcome; one fourth (22.8%, n=428) sought an ultrasound and one sixth (18.0%, n=338) used urine and/or serum testing. One in eight users (12.6%, n=292/2317) reported seeking additional medical care after taking the abortion pills. Most (87.5%, n=1551/1773) reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the abortion. Conclusions: Our study confirms that self-managed abortion is a process that people can do safely and effectively with community support and without medical supervision. In the context of a global backlash against abortion rights, self-managed abortion is an integral part of a spectrum of options for abortion care that must be made available to all.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sara Larrea
- Women Help Women, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Independent Researcher, Amstersdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Rodica Comendant
- Women Help Women, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Reproductive Health Training Center, Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Irina Sagaidac
- Women Help Women, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Moldova
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Carson A, Cameron ES, Paynter M, Norman WV, Munro S, Martin-Misener R. Nurse practitioners on 'the leading edge' of medication abortion care: A feminist qualitative approach. J Adv Nurs 2023; 79:686-697. [PMID: 36369652 PMCID: PMC10100085 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore nurse practitioners' experiences of medication abortion implementation in Canada and to identify ways to further support the implementation of medication abortion by nurse practitioners in Canada. DESIGN A qualitative approach informed by feminist theory and integrated knowledge translation. METHODS Qualitative interviews with stakeholders and nurse practitioners between January 2020 and May 2021. Data were analysed using critical feminist theory. RESULTS Participants included 20 stakeholders, 16 nurse practitioner abortion providers, and seven nurse practitioners who did not provide abortions. We found that nurse practitioners conduct educational, communication and networking activities in the implementation of medication abortion in their communities. Nurse practitioners navigated resistance to abortion care in the health system from employers, colleagues and funders. Participants valued making abortion care more accessible to their patients and indicated that normalizing medication abortion in primary care was important to them. CONCLUSION When trained in abortion care and supported by employers, nurse practitioners are leaders of abortion care in their communities and want to provide accessible, inclusive services to their patients. We recommend nursing curricula integrate abortion services in education, and that policymakers and health administrators partner with nurses, physicians, midwives, social workers and pharmacists, for comprehensive provincial/territorial sexual and reproductive health strategies for primary care. IMPACT The findings from this study may inform future policy, health administration and curriculum decisions related to reproductive health, and raise awareness about the crucial role of nurse practitioners in abortion care and contributions to reproductive health equity. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION This study focused on provider experiences. In-kind support was provided by Action Canada for Sexual Health & Rights, an organization that provides direct support and resources to the public and is committed to advocating on behalf of patients and the public seeking sexual and reproductive health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Carson
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Martha Paynter
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Wendy V Norman
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sarah Munro
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Choo SN, Ong J. ‘Roe’lling with the punches: Telehealth contraception and abortion. ANNALS OF THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, SINGAPORE 2022. [DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.2022226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
This Viewpoint details how clinicians can treat patients who have self-managed an abortion without putting the patient at risk for criminalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Nisha Verma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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Hill BJ. De-Medicalizing Abortion. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2022; 22:57-58. [PMID: 35917419 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2022.2089289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
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Matthews MM, Lal A, Pacia D. The Role of Epistemic Injustice in Abortion Access Disparities. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2022; 22:49-51. [PMID: 35917417 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2022.2089288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | | | - Deborah Grady
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco.,Deputy Editor, JAMA Internal Medicine
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Lau S. The United States needs people to stand up for abortion. BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1136/bmj.o1493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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35
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Ra Aiken
- LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
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