Complications of Unsafe and Self-Managed Abortion

This review article examines the clinical and legal implications of unsafe and self-managed abortion in the context of increasing U.S. abortion restrictions. It highlights the safety of medication induced abortion (using mifepristone and misoprostol) compared to dangerous methods, noting that complications are rare (0.3% major complications) and clinically indistinguishable from spontaneous miscarriage. The article outlines management strategies for complications (e.g., hemorrhage, infection, uterine injury) and emphasizes that care should prioritize patient safety over legal scrutiny. It also addresses the ethical and legal risks faced by patients and providers in restrictive environments, advocating for harm reduction approaches and decriminalization.

This review article examines the clinical and legal implications of unsafe and self-managed abortion in the context of increasing U.S. abortion restrictions. It highlights the safety of medication induced abortion (using mifepristone and misoprostol) compared to dangerous methods, noting that complications are rare (0.3% major complications) and clinically indistinguishable from spontaneous miscarriage. The article outlines management strategies for complications (e.g., hemorrhage, infection, uterine injury) and emphasizes that care should prioritize patient safety over legal scrutiny. It also addresses the ethical and legal risks faced by patients and providers in restrictive environments, advocating for harm reduction approaches and decriminalization.