1
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Melville C, Goldstone P, Moosa N. Telephone follow-up after early medical abortion using Australia's first low sensitivity urine pregnancy test. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 63:797-802. [PMID: 37452451 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13731] [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: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Follow-up after early medical abortion (EMA) in Australia often entails tracking serum human chorionic gonadotropin levels or performing ultrasonography in-clinic. In other countries, methods of follow-up such as using a low-sensitivity urine pregnancy test (LSUPT), telephone evaluation and a questionnaire have been demonstrated to be safe and acceptable. AIMS To evaluate the safety and efficacy of telephone follow-up after EMA using an LSUPT and questionnaire. MATERIALS AND METHODS A prospective observational cohort study of patients undergoing telephone follow-up after EMA using an LSUPT and questionnaire was conducted from March 26 to July 31, 2020. Outcomes of patients who returned to clinic because of a positive LSUPT were evaluated and adverse event rates were calculated. Routinely collected adverse event information was used to compare complication rates during the evaluation period with that prior to introduction of the LSUPT. RESULTS During the study period, 2223 patients underwent the new protocol. One hundred and ninety-seven patients had a positive LSUPT at their telephone follow-up. One hundred and thirty-two had an incomplete abortion, 11 had a continuing pregnancy, 53 had a complete abortion and one left the clinic before full assessment. CONCLUSIONS Introduction of telephone follow-up with an at-home LSUPT reduced the number of patients requiring unnecessary clinic appointments, with over 90% of patients completing their follow-up at home. Complication rates during the study period were found to be at least comparable with previously identified organisational adverse events.
Collapse
|
3
|
Sigdel A, Angdembe MR, Khanal P, Adhikari N, Maharjan A, Paudel M. Medical abortion drug dispensing practices among private pharmacy workers in Nepal: A mystery client study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278132. [PMID: 36417473 PMCID: PMC9683563 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacies are the first point of contact for women seeking medical abortion (MA) and act as important sources of information and referral in Nepal. Over the counter sale of MA drugs is not currently allowed in Nepal. This study aimed to assess the MA drug dispensing practices of pharmacy workers using mystery clients in Nepal. METHODS A cross-sectional study using the mystery client approach was conducted in 266 pharmacies in September-October 2019. These pharmacies had either received harm reduction training or medical detailing visits. A total of 532 visits were conducted by six male and six female mystery clients. Mystery clients without prescription approached the sample pharmacy and filled out a standard digital survey questionnaire using the SurveyCTO application immediately after each interaction. RESULTS Pharmacy workers dispensed MA drugs in 35.7% of the visits while they refused to provide MA drugs to the mystery clients in 39.3% of visits. Lack of evidence of prior consultation with a physician (27.5%), referral to other health facilities (21.8%), unavailability of MA drugs in the pharmacy (21.3%) and lack of prescription (16.4%) were the main reasons for refusal. Seventy percent of the pharmacy workers inquired clients about last menstrual period/months of pregnancy while 38.1% asked whether the pregnancy status was confirmed. During 65.1% of the visits, mystery clients were told about when to take the MA drugs while in 66.4% of visits, they were told about the route of drug administration. Similarly, mystery clients were briefed about what to expect during the abortion process in half of the visits, and information about the possible side effects of the MA drug was provided in 55.9% of the visits. Pharmacy workers provided correct information on taking MA drugs to mystery clients in 70.7% of visits. CONCLUSION Despite legal provision of sale of MA drugs only on prescription, pharmacy workers dispensed MA drug in one out of three visits. As pharmacies are the initial contacts of women for abortion services in Nepal, correct supplementary information through pharmacy workers can be an effective strategy to expand access to quality safe abortion services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anil Sigdel
- Population Services International, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | | | - Pratik Khanal
- Population Services International, Lalitpur, Nepal
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Atuhairwe S, Hanson C, Atuyambe L, Byamugisha J, Tumwesigye NM, Ssenyonga R, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Evaluating women’s acceptability of treatment of incomplete second trimester abortion using misoprostol provided by midwives compared with physicians: a mixed methods study. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:434. [PMID: 36335344 PMCID: PMC9637300 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02027-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies evaluating task sharing in postabortion care have mainly focused on women in first trimester and many lack a qualitative component. We aimed to evaluate patient acceptability of treatment of incomplete second trimester abortion using misoprostol provided by midwives compared with physicians and also gained a deeper understanding of the patients’ lived treatment experiences in Uganda. Methods Our mixed methods study combined 1140 structured interview data from a randomized controlled equivalence trial and in-depth interviews (n = 28) among women managed with misoprostol for second trimester incomplete abortion at 14 public health facilities in Uganda. Acceptability, our main outcome, was measured at the 14-day follow-up visit using a structured questionnaire as a composite variable of: 1) treatment experience (as expected/ better than expected/ worse than expected), and 2) satisfaction - if patient would recommend the treatment to a friend or choose the method again. We used generalized mixed effects models to obtain the risk difference in acceptable post abortion care between midwife and physician groups. We used inductive content analysis for qualitative data. Results From 14th August 2018 to 16th November 2021, we assessed 7190 women for eligibility and randomized 1191 (593 to midwife and 598 to physician). We successfully followed up 1140 women and 1071 (94%) found the treatment acceptable. The adjusted risk difference was 1.2% (95% CI, − 1.2 to 3.6%) between the two groups, and within our predefined equivalence range of − 5 to + 5%. Treatment success and feeling calm and safe after treatment enhanced acceptability while experience of side effects and worrying bleeding patterns reduced satisfaction. Conclusions Misoprostol treatment of uncomplicated second trimester incomplete abortion was equally and highly acceptable to women when care was provided by midwives compared with physicians. In settings that lack adequate staffing levels of physicians or where midwives are available to provide misoprostol, task sharing second trimester medical PAC with midwives increases patient’s access to postabortion care services. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03622073. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12905-022-02027-y. Approximately 9.6% of abortion-related deaths occur in Sub-Saharan Africa. These deaths can be prevented if unintended pregnancies are avoided, women can access safe abortions within the expectations of the country’s laws, and post abortion care (PAC) services are provided equitably. Previous research shows that women with abortion complications in the first trimester of pregnancy can be treated with misoprostol by either midwives or physicians. This sharing of tasks between the midwives and physicians is safe, effective, and acceptable. However, there is a gap in evidence on task sharing in the second trimester. To check practicability of task sharing in second trimester, we aimed to evaluate patient acceptability of treatment of incomplete second trimester abortion using misoprostol provided by midwives compared with physicians and also gained a deeper understanding of the patients’ lived treatment experiences. Our study therefore combined quantitative and qualitative approaches. Women’s acceptability of misoprostol treatment for incomplete second trimester abortion was found to be equally acceptable when provided by midwives compared with physicians. Treatment success, feeling calm and safe after treatment increased acceptability, while experience of side effects and worrying bleeding patterns reduced satisfaction. Counselling of women may address some of these problems since it provides reassurance and reduces anxiety. In settings that lack adequate staffing levels of physicians or where midwives are available to provide misoprostol, task sharing second trimester medical PAC with midwives increases patient’s access to PAC services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Atuhairwe
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda ,Department of Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Claudia Hanson
- grid.465198.7Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden ,grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of disease control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lynn Atuyambe
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josaphat Byamugisha
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ronald Ssenyonga
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Women and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705WHO Collaborating Centre, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Endler M, Cleeve A, Sääv I, Gemzell-Danielsson K. How task-sharing in abortion care became the norm in Sweden: A case study of historic and current determinants and events. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 150 Suppl 1:34-42. [PMID: 33219992 PMCID: PMC7539959 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We performed a country case study using thematic analysis of interviews and existing grey and published literature to identify facilitators and barriers to the implementation of midwife-provided abortion care in Sweden. Identified facilitating factors were: (1) the historical role and high status of Swedish midwives; (2) Swedish research and development of medical abortion that enabled an enlarged clinical role for midwives; (3) collaborations between individual clinicians and researchers within the professional associations, and the autonomy of clinical units to implement changes in clinical practice; (4) a historic precedent of changes in abortion policy occurring without prior official or legal sanction; (5) a context of liberal abortion laws, secularity, gender equality, public support for abortion, trust in public institutions; and (6) an increasing global interest in task-shifting to increase access and reduce costs. Identified barriers/risks were: (1) the lack of systems for monitoring and evaluation; and (2) a loss of physician competence in abortion care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margit Endler
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Women's Health Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amanda Cleeve
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Sääv
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ahmad D, Shankar M, Khanna A, Moreau C, Bell S. Induced Abortion Incidence and Safety in Rajasthan, India: Evidence that Expansion of Services is Needed. Stud Fam Plann 2020; 51:323-342. [PMID: 33270920 DOI: 10.1111/sifp.12140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite induced abortion being broadly legal in India, up-to-date information on its frequency and safety is not readily available. Using direct and indirect methodological approaches, this study measures the one-year incidence and safety of induced abortions among women in the state of Rajasthan. The analysis utilizes data from a population-based survey of 5,832 reproductive aged women who reported on the abortion experiences of their closest female confidante in addition to themselves. We separately assess correlates of having a recent and most unsafe abortion using multivariable regression models. The confidante approach produced a one-year abortion incidence estimate of 23 per 1,000 women, whereas the respondent estimate is 9.5 per 1,000 women. Based on the confidante estimate, approximately 441,000 abortions occurred in Rajasthan over a year. Overall, 25 and 29 percent of respondent and confidante reported abortions were classified as most unsafe. Results suggest that abortion remains an integral component of women's fertility regulation, and that a liberal law alone is insufficient to guarantee access to safe abortion services. Existing policies on abortion in India need updating to permit task sharing in line with current recommendations to expand service delivery so that demand is met through provision of safe and accessible services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danish Ahmad
- Danish Ahmad, Indian Institute of Health Management Research, 1 Prabhu Dayal Marg, Near Sanganer Airport, Jaipur, 302 029, India
| | - Mridula Shankar
- Mridula Shankar, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Anoop Khanna
- Anoop Khanna, Indian Institute of Health Management Research, Jaipur, India
| | - Caroline Moreau
- Caroline Moreau, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Suzanne Bell
- Suzanne Bell, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Simpson JL, Rechitsky S. Preimplantation genetic testing to reduce preterm births in assisted reproductive technology. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2020; 150:34-40. [PMID: 32524593 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The 10% rate of preterm birth rate worldwide has not been proved amenable to reduction. Avoiding multiple embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) using in vitro fertilization is one unassailable method. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to select only a single euploid embryo for transfer is one unequivocal way, maintaining 50%-60% pregnancy rates while avoiding twins. Contemporary methodology entails trophectoderm biopsy of a 5-6-day blastocyst, and cryopreservation of biopsied embryos while awaiting analysis by next generation sequencing. Embryo biopsy is safe, analytic validity for chromosomal analysis high, and global access to PGT high.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joe L Simpson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Reproductive Genetic Innovations, Northbrook, IL, USA
| | - Svetlana Rechitsky
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Reproductive Genetic Innovations, Northbrook, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Barger MK. Current Resources for Evidence-Based Practice, January/February 2020. J Midwifery Womens Health 2020; 65:165-171. [PMID: 31977141 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Barger
- Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, Beyster Institute for Nursing Research, San Diego, California
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Rogers C, Sapkota S, Paudel R, Dantas JAR. Medical abortion in Nepal: a qualitative study on women's experiences at safe abortion services and pharmacies. Reprod Health 2019; 16:105. [PMID: 31307474 PMCID: PMC6632190 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-019-0755-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although Nepal legalised abortion in 2002, a significant number of women continue to access unsafe abortions. An estimated 60% of all abortions performed in 2014 were unsafe, with unsafe abortion continuing to be a leading contributor to maternal mortality. Despite medical abortion access being solely permitted through government accredited safe abortion services, medical abortion pills are readily available for illegal purchase at pharmacies throughout the country. Methods Utilising an Assets Focused Rapid Participatory Appraisal (AFRPA) research methodology, underpinned by a health information pyramid conceptual framework, this qualitative exploratory study collected data from in-depth, open-ended interviews. The study explored the medical abortion and sexual and reproductive health experiences of ten women who accessed medical abortion through an accredited safe abortion service, and ten women who accessed unsafe medical abortion through pharmacies. Results Thematic content analysis revealed emerging themes relating to decision-making processes in accessing safe or unsafe medical abortion; knowledge of safe abortion services; and SRH information access and post-abortion contraceptive counselling. Findings emphasised the interconnectivity of sexual and reproductive health and rights; reproductive coercion; education; poverty; spousal separation; and women’s personal, social and economic empowerment. Conclusions While barriers to safe abortion services persist, so will the continued demand for medical abortion provision through pharmacies. Innovated and effective harm reduction implementations combined with access and information expansion strategies offer the potential to increase access to safe medical abortion while decreasing adverse health outcomes for women. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12978-019-0755-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Rogers
- International Health Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, Western Australia.
| | | | - Rasmita Paudel
- Independent Health Research Consultant, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Jaya A R Dantas
- International Health Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, Western Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rogers C, Sapkota S, Tako A, Dantas JAR. Abortion in Nepal: perspectives of a cross-section of sexual and reproductive health and rights professionals. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2019; 19:40. [PMID: 30808340 PMCID: PMC6390627 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-019-0734-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Globally, women face many barriers in the attainment of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Since 2002, the legalisation of abortion in Nepal has seen significant progress in the expansion of safe abortion and family planning services. Methods This qualitative, exploratory study was conducted in 2014 and uses nine in-depth, open-ended interviews with a cross-section of SRHR professionals, to explore their perspectives on abortion in Nepal. The study was underpinned by the Assets Focused Rapid Participatory Appraisal (AFRPA) research methodology and used the health information pyramid conceptual framework. Results Thematic content analysis revealed emerging themes relating to barriers to access and uptake of skilled safe abortion services and post-abortion family planning. Findings also emphasised current practical and legal components relating to the provision of medical abortion through pharmacies and highlighted issues of sex-selective abortion within the predominantly patriarchal society. Conclusion Effective and ongoing sector-wide monitoring and evaluation of safe abortion services and their staff is essential for women in Nepal to have adequate access to effective and efficient safe abortion services, access to contraception and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information post-abortion and to ensure adherence to current Safe Abortion Policy. It is critical that the unsafe (less and least safe) provision of medical abortion through pharmacies and sex-selective abortion continues to be investigated and that innovative strategies are formulated to ensure the cultural, reproductive and sexual health and rights of Nepali women are realised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Rogers
- International Health Programme, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, Western Australia.
| | | | - Anita Tako
- Independent Sexual and Reproductive Health Consultant, Bhaktapur, Nepal
| | - Jaya A R Dantas
- International Health Programme, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, 6102, Western Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Endler M, Beets L, Gemzell Danielsson K, Gomperts R. Safety and acceptability of medical abortion through telemedicine after 9 weeks of gestation: a population-based cohort study. BJOG 2018; 126:609-618. [DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Endler
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Department of Women's and Children's Health; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - L Beets
- Department of Health Sciences; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| | - K Gemzell Danielsson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Department of Women's and Children's Health; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - R Gomperts
- Women on Web International Foundation; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Goldstein KM, Zullig LL, Dedert EA, Alishahi Tabriz A, Brearly TW, Raitz G, Sata SS, Whited JD, Bosworth HB, Gordon AM, Nagi A, Williams JW, Gierisch JM. Telehealth Interventions Designed for Women: an Evidence Map. J Gen Intern Med 2018; 33:2191-2200. [PMID: 30284173 PMCID: PMC6258612 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-018-4655-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telehealth employs technology to connect patients to the right healthcare resources at the right time. Women are high utilizers of healthcare with gender-specific health issues that may benefit from the convenience and personalization of telehealth. Thus, we produced an evidence map describing the quantity, distribution, and characteristics of evidence assessing the effectiveness of telehealth services designed for women. METHODS We searched MEDLINE® (via PubMed®) and Embase® from inception through March 20, 2018. We screened systematic reviews (SRs), randomized trials, and quasi-experimental studies using predetermined eligibility criteria. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were identified for data abstraction. To assess emerging trends, we also conducted a targeted search of ClinicalTrials.gov . RESULTS Two hundred thirty-four primary studies and three SRs were eligible for abstraction. We grouped studies into focused areas of research: maternal health (n = 96), prevention (n = 46), disease management (n = 63), family planning (n = 9), high-risk breast cancer assessment (n = 10), intimate partner violence (n = 7), and mental health (n = 3). Most interventions focused on phone as the primary telehealth modality and featured healthcare team-to-patient communication and were limited in duration (e.g., < 12 weeks). Few interventions were conducted with older women (≥ 60 years) or in racially/ethnically diverse populations. There are few SRs in this area and limited evidence regarding newer telehealth modalities such as mobile-based applications or short message service/texting. Targeted search of clinical.trials.gov yielded 73 ongoing studies that show a shift in the use of non-telephone modalities. DISCUSSION Our systematic evidence map highlights gaps in the existing literature, such as a lack of studies in key women's health areas (intimate partner violence, mental health), and a dearth of relevant SRs. With few existing SRs in this literature, there is an opportunity for examining effects, efficiency, and acceptability across studies to inform efforts at implementing telehealth for women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Goldstein
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA. .,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Leah L Zullig
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric A Dedert
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amir Alishahi Tabriz
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Timothy W Brearly
- Salisbury Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Salisbury, NC, USA.,Neuropsychology Assessment Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Giselle Raitz
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - John D Whited
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hayden B Bosworth
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.,School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Adelaide M Gordon
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Avishek Nagi
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - John W Williams
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer M Gierisch
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kapp N, Grossman D, Jackson E, Castleman L, Brahmi D. A research agenda for moving early medical pregnancy termination over the counter. BJOG 2017; 124:1646-1652. [PMID: 28317327 PMCID: PMC5637897 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Given the overall safety profile and increasing availability of medical pregnancy termination drugs, we asked: would the mifepristone-misoprostol regimen for medical termination at ≤10 weeks of gestation meet US Food and Drug Administration regulatory criteria for over-the-counter (OTC) approval, and if not, what are the present research gaps? We conducted a literature review of consumer behaviours necessary for a successful OTC application for medical termination at ≤10 weeks of gestation and identified crucial research gaps. If we were to embark on a development programme for OTC or more generally, self-use of medical termination, the critical elements missing are the label comprehension, self-selection and actual use studies. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Considering medical pregnancy termination through the over-the-counter regulatory lens clarifies critical evidence gaps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Kapp
- Ipas, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - D 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, CA, USA
| | - E Jackson
- Independent Consultant, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Paul M, Essén B, Sariola S, Iyengar S, Soni S, Klingberg Allvin M. Negotiating Collective and Individual Agency: A Qualitative Study of Young Women's Reproductive Health in Rural India. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2017; 27:311-324. [PMID: 26531879 PMCID: PMC5302084 DOI: 10.1177/1049732315613038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The societal changes in India and the available variety of reproductive health services call for evidence to inform health systems how to satisfy young women's reproductive health needs. Inspired by Foucault's power idiom and Bandura's agency framework, we explore young women's opportunities to practice reproductive agency in the context of collective social expectations. We carried out in-depth interviews with 19 young women in rural Rajasthan. Our findings highlight how changes in notions of agency across generations enable young women's reproductive intentions and desires, and call for effective means of reproductive control. However, the taboo around sex without the intention to reproduce made contraceptive use unfeasible. Instead, abortions were the preferred method for reproductive control. In conclusion, safe abortion is key, along with the need to address the taboo around sex to enable use of "modern" contraception. This approach could prevent unintended pregnancies and expand young women's agency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mandira Paul
- Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Mandira Paul, Department of Women’s and Children’s health/IMCH, Uppsala University, Akademiska Sjukhuset, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | | | | - Sharad Iyengar
- Action Research & Training for Health, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Sunita Soni
- Action Research & Training for Health, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Marie Klingberg Allvin
- Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, WHO collaborating Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
- Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Paul M, Iyengar SD, Essén B, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Iyengar K, Bring J, Klingberg-Allvin M. Does mode of follow-up influence contraceptive use after medical abortion in a low-resource setting? Secondary outcome analysis of a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:1087. [PMID: 27745552 PMCID: PMC5066281 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3726-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Post-abortion contraceptive use in India is low and the use of modern methods of contraception is rare, especially in rural areas. This study primarily compares contraceptive use among women whose abortion outcome was assessed in-clinic with women who assessed their abortion outcome at home, in a low-resource, primary health care setting. Moreover, it investigates how background characteristics and abortion service provision influences contraceptive use post-abortion. Methods A randomized controlled, non-inferiority, trial (RCT) compared clinic follow-up with home-assessment of abortion outcome at 2 weeks post-abortion. Additionally, contraceptive-use at 3 months post-abortion was investigated through a cross-sectional follow-up interview with a largely urban sub-sample of women from the RCT. Women seeking abortion with a gestational age of up to 9 weeks and who agreed to a 2-week follow-up were included (n = 731). Women with known contraindications to medical abortions, Hb < 85 mg/l and aged below 18 were excluded. Data were collected between April 2013 and August 2014 in six primary health-care clinics in Rajasthan. A computerised random number generator created the randomisation sequence (1:1) in blocks of six. Contraceptive use was measured at 2 weeks among women successfully followed-up (n = 623) and 3 months in the sub-set of women who were included if they were recruited at one of the urban study sites, owned a phone and agreed to a 3-month follow-up (n = 114). Results There were no differences between contraceptive use and continuation between study groups at 3 months (76 % clinic follow-up, 77 % home-assessment), however women in the clinic follow-up group were most likely to adopt a contraceptive method at 2 weeks (62 ± 12 %), while women in the home-assessment group were most likely to adopt a method after next menstruation (60 ± 13 %). Fifty-two per cent of women who initiated a method at 2 weeks chose the 3-month injection or the copper intrauterine device. Only 4 % of women preferred sterilization. Caste, educational attainment, or type of residence did not influence contraceptive use. Conclusions Simplified follow-up after early medical abortion will not change women’s opportunities to access contraception in a low-resource setting, if contraceptive services are provided as intra-abortion services as early as on day one. Women’s postabortion contraceptive use at 3 months is unlikely to be affected by mode of followup after medical abortion, also in a low-resource setting. Clinical guidelines need to encourage intra-abortion contraception, offering the full spectrum of evidence-based methods, especially long-acting reversible methods. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01827995
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mandira Paul
- Department of Women's and Children's health / International Maternal and Child Health (IMCH), Uppsala University, Akademiska Sjukhuset, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sharad D Iyengar
- Action Research & Training for Health (ARTH), 313011, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Birgitta Essén
- Department of Women's and Children's health / International Maternal and Child Health (IMCH), Uppsala University, Akademiska Sjukhuset, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, WHO collaborating Centre, SE-17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kirti Iyengar
- Action Research & Training for Health (ARTH), 313011, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, WHO collaborating Centre, SE-17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Marie Klingberg-Allvin
- Statisticon, SE-10136, Stockholm, Sweden.,School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, SE-791 88, Falun, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Constant D, Harries J, Malaba T, Myer L, Patel M, Petro G, Grossman D. Clinical Outcomes and Women's Experiences before and after the Introduction of Mifepristone into Second-Trimester Medical Abortion Services in South Africa. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161843. [PMID: 27583448 PMCID: PMC5008795 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To document clinical outcomes and women’s experiences following the introduction of mifepristone into South African public sector second-trimester medical abortion services, and compare with historic cohorts receiving misoprostol-only. Methods Repeated cross-sectional observational studies documented service delivery and experiences of women undergoing second-trimester medical abortion in public sector hospitals in the Western Cape, South Africa. Women recruited to the study in 2008 (n = 84) and 2010 (n = 58) received misoprostol only. Those recruited in 2014 (n = 208) received mifepristone and misoprostol. Consenting women were interviewed during hospitalization by study fieldworkers with respect to socio-demographic information, reproductive history, and their experiences with the abortion. Clinical details were extracted from medical charts following discharge. Telephone follow-up interviews to record delayed complications were conducted 2–4 weeks after discharge for the 2014 cohort. Results The 2014 cohort received 200 mg mifepristone, which was self-administered 24–48 hours prior to admission. For all cohorts, following hospital admission, initial misoprostol doses were generally administered vaginally: 800 mcg in the 2014 cohort and 600 mcg in the earlier cohorts. Women received subsequent doses of misoprostol 400 mcg orally every 3–4 hours until fetal expulsion. Thereafter, uterine evacuation of placental tissue was performed as needed. With one exception, all women in all cohorts expelled the fetus. Median time-to-fetal expulsion was reduced to 8.0 hours from 14.5 hours (p<0.001) in the mifepristone compared to the 2010 misoprostol-only cohort (time of fetal expulsion was not recorded in 2008). Uterine evacuation of placental tissue using curettage or vacuum aspiration was more often performed (76% vs. 58%, p<0.001) for those receiving mifepristone; major complication rates were unchanged. Hospitalization duration and extreme pain levels were reduced (p<0.001), but side effects of medication were similar or more common for the mifepristone cohort. Overall satisfaction remained unchanged (95% vs. 91%), while other acceptability measures were higher (p<0.001) for the mifepristone compared to the misoprostol-only cohorts. Conclusion The introduction of a combined mifepristone-misoprostol regimen into public sector second-trimester medical abortion services in South Africa has been successful with shorter time-to-abortion events, less extreme pain and greater acceptability for women. High rates of uterine evacuation for placental tissue need to be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Constant
- Women’s Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Jane Harries
- Women’s Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thokozile Malaba
- Women’s Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Malika Patel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gregory Petro
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cape Town and New Somerset Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Oakland, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cleeve A, Byamugisha J, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Mbona Tumwesigye N, Atuhairwe S, Faxelid E, Klingberg-Allvin M. Women's Acceptability of Misoprostol Treatment for Incomplete Abortion by Midwives and Physicians - Secondary Outcome Analysis from a Randomized Controlled Equivalence Trial at District Level in Uganda. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149172. [PMID: 26872219 PMCID: PMC4752492 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to assess women´s acceptability of diagnosis and treatment of incomplete abortion with misoprostol by midwives, compared with physicians. Methods This was an analysis of secondary outcomes from a multi-centre randomized controlled equivalence trial at district level in Uganda. Women with first trimester incomplete abortion were randomly allocated to clinical assessment and treatment with misoprostol by a physician or a midwife. The randomisation (1:1) was done in blocks of 12 and stratified for health care facility. Acceptability was measured in expectations and satisfaction at a follow up visit 14–28 days following treatment. Analysis of women’s overall acceptability was done using a generalized linear mixed-effects model with an equivalence range of -4% to 4%. The study was not masked. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.org, NCT 01844024. Results From April 2013 to June 2014, 1108 women were assessed for eligibility of which 1010 were randomized (506 to midwife and 504 to physician). 953 women were successfully followed up and included in the acceptability analysis. 95% (904) of the participants found the treatment satisfactory and overall acceptability was found to be equivalent between the two study groups. Treatment failure, not feeling calm and safe following treatment, experiencing severe abdominal pain or heavy bleeding following treatment, were significantly associated with non-satisfaction. No serious adverse events were recorded. Conclusions Treatment of incomplete abortion with misoprostol by midwives and physician was highly, and equally, acceptable to women. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01844024
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Cleeve
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- WHO Center for Human Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Josaphat Byamugisha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- WHO Center for Human Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Susan Atuhairwe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elisabeth Faxelid
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Global Health (IHCAR), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie Klingberg-Allvin
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Iyengar K, Klingberg-Allvin M, Iyengar SD, Paul M, Essén B, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Home use of misoprostol for early medical abortion in a low resource setting: secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2015; 95:173-81. [PMID: 26565074 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.12815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although home use of misoprostol for early medical abortion is considered to be safe, effective and feasible, it has not become standard service delivery practice. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy, safety, and acceptability of home use of misoprostol with clinic misoprostol in a low-resource setting. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial conducted in six primary care clinics in India. Women seeking medical abortion within up to nine gestational weeks (n = 731) received mifepristone in the clinic and were allocated either to home or clinic administration of misoprostol. Follow-up contact was after 10-15 days. RESULTS Of 731 participants, 73% were from rural areas and 55% had no formal education. Complete abortion rates in the home and clinic misoprostol groups were 94.2 and 94.4%, respectively. The rate of adverse events was similar in both groups (0.3%). A greater proportion of home users (90.2%) said that they would opt for misoprostol at home in the event of a future abortion compared with clinic users (79.7%) who would opt for misoprostol at the clinic in a similar situation (p = 0.0002). Ninety-six percent women using misoprostol at home or in the clinic were satisfied with their abortion experience. CONCLUSIONS Home-use of misoprostol for early medical abortion is as effective and acceptable as clinic use, in low resource settings. Women should be offered a choice of this option regardless of distance of their residence from the clinic and communication facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirti Iyengar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, WHO Collaborating Centre, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Action Research & Training for Health (ARTH), Udaipur, India
| | - Marie Klingberg-Allvin
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, WHO Collaborating Centre, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| | | | - Mandira Paul
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, IMCH/Akademiska Sjukhuset, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Essén
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, IMCH/Akademiska Sjukhuset, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, WHO Collaborating Centre, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|