Effect of Preoperative Buccal Misoprostol on Blood Loss in Second-trimester Dilation and Evacuation Abortion
Status:
Terminated
Trial end date:
2012-08-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Misoprostol is a medication used extensively in obstetrics and gynecology for its ability to
aid in softening the cervix as well as decreasing blood loss after abortion or vaginal
delivery. Opinions vary as to its usefulness in aiding in cervical dilation, and in
decreasing blood loss. The investigators propose to conduct a randomized, placebo-controlled
trial to evaluate whether misoprostol given buccally 2 hours prior to second trimester
surgical abortion decreases blood loss from the procedure. The investigators will also assess
whether misoprostol improves cervical dilation, changes the length of the procedure, changes
the need for additional mechanical dilation, changes the subjective ease of the procedure,
and changes a woman's pain.