A 2017-June 2024 retrospective cohort of 684 patients receiving mifepristone and misoprostol at up to 24 weeks achieved complete abortion in 422 cases (61.7%). Gestation beyond 12 weeks was associated with incomplete abortion (adjusted OR 1.61).
Key findings
- Complete outcomes were 251/378 (66.4%) at ≤12 weeks and 171/306 (55.9%) after 12 weeks. Surgical intervention was reported in 35.2%, sponge-forceps evacuation in 2.9% and subtotal hysterectomy in 0.1%; >12 weeks carried adjusted OR 1.61 for incomplete outcome.
Why this matters globally
Real-world data inform counseling, staffing and referral across gestational ages. Earlier access appears important, but results must not be used to deny care to people presenting later because of structural barriers.
Thai researcher contribution
Three Hatyai Hospital clinicians analyzed more than seven years of southern Thai service data in a Prince of Songkla University medical journal.
Limitations to consider
A single-center retrospective study depends on record completeness, regimen, selection and potentially changing definitions. It cannot prove causal benefit from earlier access, intervention categories may overlap, and gestational-age percentages are ambiguously presented.