Advance provision of medication for induced abortion: A qualitative study of patient perspectives

Abstract

Objectives: To examine potential users' perspectives regarding the provision of abortion medications for future use or "advance provision."

Study design: In this qualitative study, we partnered with an independent reproductive health care clinic in Washington State to conduct semistructured, in-depth interviews with 22 individuals who obtained a medication abortion between August 2021 and January 2022. We asked participants their views on advance provision of abortion medications. Interviews were transcribed and deidentified. Inductive content analysis was used to identify major themes.

Results: Participants in our sample generally reacted positively to the idea of abortion medications for future use. Having pills in advance could improve timeliness and convenience of care and decrease the stigma associated with their use. Participants stressed the importance of adequate information regarding medication use, what to expect, and potential side effects. Most concerns about advance provision related to the safety and efficacy of medication abortion.

Conclusions: This study found that individuals who recently obtained a medication abortion supported the provision of abortion medications for future use.

Implications: Patient-centered educational materials, with adequate information for self-managing pregnancy termination, can be shared at time of prescription. Clinicians have an opportunity to offer these safe and effective medications in advance of need and increase timely access to this essential health care service. User concerns regarding abortion medications for future use should inform clinical innovation and evaluative research of service options.

Keywords: Abortion; Advance provision; Medication abortion; Mifepristone; Patient-centered; Telemedicine.