Comparative study of Oral and Vaginal Misoprostol in the Induction of First and Second Trimester induced abortions

Abstract

Background: Misoprostol is a PGE1 analogue is used to terminate pregnancies with great success. It is administered by various routes, oral, vaginal and rectal. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and side effects of oral and vaginal misoprostol in first and second trimester induced abortions. Materials and Methods: Our study included a total of 80 women, 40 each in first and second trimester. Patients in each trimester were divided into two groups of 20 and were given misoprostol by oral and vaginal route. Outcomes like complete abortion and side effects were observed. The statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Inc.). Results: Success rate of abortion In first trimester was 94 % and 86 % in oral and vaginal group
respectively. In second trimester, the success rate was 94 % and 82 % in oral and vaginal group respectively. Conclusion: Oral and vaginal routes of misoprostol administration have similar efficacy and patient satisfaction level for first and second trimester induced abortions. Hence, oral route may serve as an alternative to vaginal misoprostol.