OBJECTIVE: To identify information and service delivery needs for obstetric/gynecologic uses of misoprostol in developing countries. METHODS: The study included a survey of reproductive health providers in 23 countries and a qualitative study of misoprostol use in four developing countries. Researchers used purposive sampling methods for the survey and qualitative study and conducted a descriptive statistical analysis of survey data and computer-assisted text-based content analysis of qualitative data. RESULTS: In some developing countries, women frequently access misoprostol through pharmacies and self-medicate to induce early abortion. Some clinicians expressed concern about this use of misoprostol, but many stated that its availability had reduced serious complications resulting from unsafe abortions. CONCLUSION: Although misoprostol is routinely used for a range of off-label obstetric/gynecologic indications, evidence-based, up-to-date information about safety, effectiveness, and appropriate regimens is not widely available. This information is requested by providers, including pharmacists. Women need information and guidance about its use.
OBJECTIVE: To identify information and service delivery needs for obstetric/gynecologic uses of misoprostol in developing countries. METHODS: The study included a survey of reproductive health providers in 23 countries and a qualitative study of misoprostol use in four developing countries. Researchers used purposive sampling methods for the survey and qualitative study and conducted a descriptive statistical analysis of survey data and computer-assisted text-based content analysis of qualitative data. RESULTS: In some developing countries, women frequently access misoprostol through pharmacies and self-medicate to induce early abortion. Some clinicians expressed concern about this use of misoprostol, but many stated that its availability had reduced serious complications resulting from unsafe abortions. CONCLUSION: Although misoprostol is routinely used for a range of off-label obstetric/gynecologic indications, evidence-based, up-to-date information about safety, effectiveness, and appropriate regimens is not widely available. This information is requested by providers, including pharmacists. Women need information and guidance about its use.
Authors: Lisa M Vallely; Primrose Homiehombo; Angela Kelly-Hanku; Antonia Kumbia; Glen D L Mola; Andrea Whittaker Journal: PLoS One Date: 2014-10-17 Impact factor: 3.240
Authors: Ellen M H Mitchell; Silke Heumann; Ana Araujo; Leila Adesse; Carolyn Tucker Halpern Journal: BMC Womens Health Date: 2014-02-13 Impact factor: 2.809
Authors: Francis J M K Damalie; Edward T Dassah; Emmanuel S K Morhe; Emmanuel K Nakua; Harry K Tagbor; Henry S Opare-Addo Journal: BMC Womens Health Date: 2014-07-29 Impact factor: 2.809