This study’s primary objective was to determine whether intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate was given at the time of misoprostol administration, 24–48 hours after mifepristone, affects the rate of continuing pregnancy. Besides, the study explored factors predictive for ongoing pregnancy.
The present study was a case-control study based on a database review of women who underwent EMA over four years. Researchers did this study at the single abortion service in Scotland.
A total of 4838 women with complete data were included, of which there were 20 continuing pregnancies; 284 women were excluded due to missing data. There was no increased risk of a continuing pregnancy among women who initiated IM DMPA at the time of misoprostol administration compared with women who started no hormonal contraception at this time. Gestation ≥8 weeks and previous terminations were factors associated with an increased likelihood of continuing pregnancy.
The study concluded that women choosing IM DMPA can be reassured that IM DMPA can be safely initiated at the time of misoprostol administration 24–48 hours after mifepristone without an increase in the risk of a continuing pregnancy.
Reference: https://srh.bmj.com/content/44/4/242
