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5mo ago

Survey Reveals Many Women Underprepared for Pain of Medication Abortions

New research finds that nearly half of women experience more severe pain than expected during medication abortions, prompting calls for improved counseling and preparation.

A woman clutches her belly in pain, with an image of pills and an ultrasound inset. People that have been pregnant for no more than 10 weeks can take a pill called misoprostol, with or without mifepristone, to simulate an early-term miscarriage.
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Overview

  • A British study surveyed 1,600 women who underwent medication abortions, with 41.5% rating their pain as 8 or higher on a 10-point scale.
  • Nearly half of respondents reported the pain was more severe than they had anticipated, with some comparing it to labor contractions.
  • The study highlights that current counseling often downplays the potential pain, using period cramps as a benchmark, which many found unhelpful or misleading.
  • Experts call for more realistic, patient-centered counseling to help women make informed decisions and better prepare for the procedure.
  • Recommendations include providing detailed pain management plans, such as using NSAIDs, anti-nausea medications, heating pads, and ensuring access to emotional support.