Medical methods for pregnancy termination: A review of literature and its potential role in Mexico and Latin America

July 2002

Medical methods for pregnancy termination: A review of literature and its potential role in Mexico and Latin America

Espinoza H, Ellertson C, Garcia S, Schiavon R, Langer A. Medical methods for pregnancy termination: A review of literature and its potential role in Mexico and Latin America. Gaceta Medicina de Mexico. September 2002; 138(5):504. July 2002; 138(4);347-356

In this document, we review the relevant aspects of the different medical methods of abortion. We describe the principal medical regimens currently used in North America, Europe, and a growing number of developing countries. We also describe specific treatment regimens (which usually involve a combination of two drugs), physiological methods of action, potential side effects and complications, method requirements, including follow-up visits, any existing contraindication, and acceptability of these methods among patients. Finally, we comment on the potential role of medical abortion in Mexico and throughout Latin America.