Psychosocial profiles of women who legally terminated a pregnancy in Mexico City / Perfiles psicosociales de mujeres que interrumpieron legalmente un embarazo en la Ciudad de México

Abstract Introduction Reproductive autonomy enables a person to freely decide their life plan, including sexual and reproductive health. However, its exercise can be constrained by health determinants and other structural conditions. Knowing the background of women who undergo a Legal Interruption of Pregnancy (LIP) helps identify patterns of inequality and their impact on the exercise of reproductive autonomy. Objective To analyze the profile of women who legally terminate a pregnancy in Mexico City. Method Latent class analysis, with the participation of 274 women who terminated a first trimester pregnancy at a public facility. Results Model of two latent classes: adult (68.34%) and young women (31.65%). Stigma was the predictor variable for class; the higher the score, the lower the probability of belonging to the adult group (p = .019). Adult women were characterized by having lower educational attainment, engaging in unpaid activities, having at least one child, and having had previous abortions, having experienced intimate partner violence in the past twelve months and reporting that their partners did not agree with the interruption of their pregnancy. Young women were students, partnered and reported that their partners had agreed with them to request an abortion. Discussion and conclusion Despite the legal changes effected, stigma is still present in the abortion demand and access, particularly for women with certain characteristics. It would be useful to include interventions to reduce stigma in counseling, using an approach based on previous experience.

Resumen Introducción El ejercicio de la autonomía reproductiva permite tomar decisiones libres sobre el plan de vida incluyendo la salud sexual y reproductiva. Las determinantes de la salud y otros condicionantes estructurales pueden obstaculizar su ejercicio. Conocer los antecedentes de las mujeres que realizan una Interrupción Legal del Embarazo contribuye a determinar patrones de desigualdad y su impacto sobre el ejercicio de la autonomía reproductiva. Objetivo Analizar el perfil de mujeres que interrumpen legalmente un embarazo en la Ciudad de México. Método Análisis de clases latentes, participaron 274 mujeres que interrumpieron un embarazo de primer trimestre en un servicio público. Resultados Modelo de dos clases latentes: adultas (68.34%) y jóvenes (31.65%). El estigma fue la variable predictora de la clase; a mayor puntaje menor probabilidad de pertenecer al grupo de adultas (p = .019). Para las adultas se caracterizaron por tener menor escolaridad, actividades no remuneradas, tener al menos un hijo y abortos previos, experimentaron violencia de pareja en los últimos doce meses y reportaron que su pareja no estuvo de acuerdo con la interrupción. Las jóvenes eran estudiantes, tenían pareja y reportaron que habían acordado con ella solicitar el aborto. Discusión y conclusión A pesar de los cambios legales, el estigma está presente en la demanda y el acceso a los servicios de aborto y resulta particularmente relevante en mujeres con ciertas características. Sería oportuno incluir en la consejería intervenciones para disminuirlo buscando un enfoque centrado en las experiencias previas.

Failure to reduce the risk of postoperative lower genital tract infection with perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis during induced abortion: a real-world study.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate perioperative antibiotic use for induced abortion and its association with lower genital tract infections (LGTI) two weeks post-surgery in China. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of women seeking induced abortion. We interviewed participants on the day of surgery and two weeks after, and evaluated preoperative tests, gynecological exams, perioperative antibiotic usage, postoperative vaginal microbiota, and LGTI diagnosis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between the perioperative antibiotic use and LGTI risk. Results: We recruited 8,190 women undergoing induced abortion at 27 participating hospitals. Of these, 95% had gynecological exams, but over 80% lacked tests for vaginal microbiota, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Approximately 20% of those examined had increased vaginal discharge and abnormal vaginal cleanliness. The positive rates for gram-positive rods, fungi, and trichomonas were 38.6, 2.4, and 0.3%, respectively. More than three-quarters (78.5%) of participants received antibiotics, mainly second-gen cephalosporins (36.8%) and nitroimidazoles (12.3%). LGTI rates two weeks post-surgery were 2.7% for antibiotic recipients and 3.1% for non-recipients, with no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). Logistic regression showed no association between perioperative antibiotic use and LGTI risk (OR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.59-1.74). However, this risk increased with abnormal preoperative discharge tests (OR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.04-1.86). Conclusion: Most Chinese women undergoing induced abortion used perioperative antibiotics, but this did not significantly reduce LGTI risk. Instead, this risk was related to abnormal preoperative discharge tests. Standardization of perioperative antibiotic use for induced abortion is recommended, and prophylactic treatment in Chinese abortion services warrants further investigation.

Pregnancy outcomes following routine early provision of intrauterine device after first-trimester induced abortion-A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial with a 5-year follow up.

INTRODUCTION: Women undergoing an induced abortion are highly fertile and at risk of subsequent unplanned pregnancy. We recently completed a randomized clinical trial showing that routine provision of intrauterine device (IUD) at the time of abortion significantly reduced the risk of subsequent abortion during a 5-year follow up. As the use of highly effective contraception may affect all subsequent pregnancies, we analyzed the rate and distribution of all subsequent pregnancies (deliveries, miscarriages, and abortions), and the risk factors for these various pregnancy outcomes in the above-mentioned randomized clinical trial. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We enrolled adult women requesting first-trimester induced abortion and candidates for IUD for post-abortion contraception. Women (n = 751) were randomized to receive an IUD (either levonorgestrel-releasing IUD or copper IUD) by the clinic responsible for abortion care vs. routine care of IUD provision in primary health care with oral contraceptives for interval contraception. In the present secondary analysis, we identified all deliveries, miscarriages, and abortions in the intervention (n = 375) and control (n = 373) cohorts during the 5-year follow up using the Finnish national registries. The trial is registered at Clinical Trials (NTC01223521). RESULTS: The overall delivery, miscarriage, and abortion rates were 42.0, 12.0 and 32.1/1000 years of follow up (yFU). Any new pregnancy occurred in 98 women in the intervention and in 129 women in the control cohort (hazard ratio 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.56-0.95, p = 0.023). The effect of routine IUD provision in reducing pregnancies was limited to the first 2 yFU. The number of subsequent induced abortions and of women undergoing it were significantly reduced, and time to abortion was prolonged by the intervention. However, the overall number, the number of women with subsequent delivery or miscarriage, and the times to these events were not significantly affected. History of previous pregnancy (delivery or abortion) and smoking were risk factors for subsequent induced abortion, but not for delivery or miscarriage. CONCLUSIONS: Routine provision of IUD as part of abortion care did not reduce the rates of delivery or miscarriage during the 5-year follow up. The rates of all pregnancies and the need of subsequent induced abortion were reduced by IUD provision during the first 2 yFU.

Fear of childbirth after induced abortion in primiparous women: Population-based register study from Finland.

INTRODUCTION: Fear of childbirth (FOC) is a common obstetrical challenge that complicates about every 10th pregnancy. Background factors of FOC are diverse. We evaluated the association of induced abortion (IA) and FOC in subsequent pregnancy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Population-based register study based on three Finnish national registers: the Register of Induced Abortions, the Medical Birth Register and the Hospital Discharge Register. The study cases were primigravid women undergoing an IA in 2000-2015 and subsequent pregnancy ending in live singleton birth up to 2017. Each case had three controls, matched by age and residential area, whose first pregnancy ended in a live birth. The main outcome was the incidence of FOC in the subsequent pregnancy. In a secondary analysis, we assessed other risk factors for FOC. RESULTS: The study cohort consisted of 21 455 women and 63 425 controls. Altogether, 4.2% of women had a diagnosis of FOC. The incidence was higher in women with a history of IA than in controls (5.6% vs 3.7%, P < 0.001). A history of IA was associated with higher odds for FOC: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.20 with 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-1.30. In addition, a history of psychiatric diagnosis (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 3.15-3.83), high maternal age, 30-39 years old (aOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.43-1.67; P < 0.001) and ≥40 years old (aOR 3.00, 95% CI 2.37-3.77; P < 0.001) and smoking (aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.11-1.31; P < 0.001) were associated with increased odds for FOC. Women living in densely populated or rural areas and those with lower socioeconomic class had lower odds for FOC. CONCLUSIONS: A history of IA is associated with increased odds for FOC in subsequent pregnancy. However, the associations of FOC with a history of psychiatric diagnosis and elevated maternal age (especially ≥40 years old) are more pronounced.

O aborto na perspectiva de graduandos em enfermagem

Objetivos: Explorar as representações sociais de estudantes de enfermagem sobre o abortamento provocado e discutir as representações sociais sobre o cuidado de enfermagem à mulheres em processo de abortamento ou pós-aborto com complicações. Método: Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, fundamentado na Teoria das Representações Sociais, realizado com 16 estudantes de enfermagem do curso de Enfermagem da região do nordeste do Brasil, realizado no período de novembro de 2022. Foi utilizado como critério de inclusão ser estudante de enfermagem devidamente matriculado(a) no semestre 2022.2 da UNEB e de exclusão ser menor de 18 anos. Os dados foram coletados através da entrevista semiestruturada e analisados por meio do software Iramuteq que gerou a Classificação Hierárquica Descendente. Resultados: Após o processamento dos dados e o agrupamento das palavras feito pelo sistema, obteve-se a classificação dos segmentos de texto e a definição dos nomes das classes: Classe 1: Cuidado de enfermagem à mulher em situação de aborto; Classe 2: Representação do abortamento provocado na perspectiva dos direitos sexuais e reprodutivos e sua legalização como forma de reduzir o risco de complicações e morte; Classe 3: Representação do abortamento provocado na perspectiva dos direitos sexuais e reprodutivos e sua legalização como forma de reduzir o risco de complicações e morte. Conclusão: Torna-se necessário que na graduação o tema seja discutido com mais frequência para que se possa ampliar o conhecimento frente aos desafios e complexidades que futuros profissionais irão lidam na prestação de cuidados à mulheres em processo de abortamento ou pós-aborto com complicações.

Objetivos: Explorar las representaciones sociales de estudiantes de enfermería sobre el aborto inducido y discutir las representaciones sociales de los cuidados de enfermería a mujeres sometidas a un aborto o postaborto con complicaciones. Método: Se trata de un estudio cualitativo, basado en la Teoría de las Representaciones Sociales, realizado con 16 estudiantes de enfermería del curso de Enfermería de la región noreste de Brasil realizado en noviembre de 2022. El criterio de inclusión fue ser estudiante de enfermería debidamente matriculado en la 2022.2 semestre en la UNEB y exclusión debe ser menor de 18 años. Los datos fueron recolectados mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas y analizados mediante el software Iramuteq, que generó la Clasificación Jerárquica Descendente. Resultados: Después del procesamiento de los datos y la agrupación de las palabras realizadas por el sistema, se clasificaron los segmentos de texto y se definieron los nombres de las clases: Clase 1: Atención de enfermería a la mujer sometida a aborto; Clase 2: Representación del aborto inducido desde la perspectiva de los derechos sexuales y reproductivos y su legalización como forma de reducir el riesgo de complicaciones y muerte; Clase 3: Representación del aborto inducido desde la perspectiva de los derechos sexuales y reproductivos y su legalización como forma de reducir el riesgo de complicaciones y muerte. Conclusión: Es necesario que durante la graduación se discuta con mayor frecuencia el tema para que se puedan ampliar conocimientos ante los desafíos y complejidades que enfrentarán los futuros profesionales al brindar atención a mujeres en proceso de aborto o postaborto con complicaciones.

Objectives: Exploring the social representations of nursing students about induced abortion and discuss the social representations of nursing care for women undergoing an abortion or post-abortion with complications. Method: This is a qualitative study based on the Theory of Social Representations, carried out with 16 nursing students from the Nursing course in the Northeast region of Brazil held in November 2022. The inclusion criterion was being a student of nursing duly enrolled in the 2022.2 semester at UNEB and exclusion must be under 18 years of age. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the Iramuteq software, which generated the Descending Hierarchical Classification. Results: After processing the data and grouping the words carried out by the system, the text segments were classified and the names of the classes were defined: Class 1: Nursing care for women undergoing an abortion; Class 2: Representation of induced abortion from the perspective of sexual and reproductive rights and its legalization as a way of reducing the risk of complications and death; Class 3: Representation of induced abortion from the perspective of sexual and reproductive rights and its legalization as a way of reducing the risk of complications and death. Conclusion: It is necessary that during graduation the topic is discussed more frequently so that knowledge can be expanded in the face of the challenges and complexities that future professionals will deal with when providing care to women in the process of miscarriage or post-abortion with complications.

Evaluating pregnancy termination decisions for fetal anomalies: a retrospective study in a tertiary referral center

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the factors that influence pregnancy termination due to fetal anomalies, regardless of gestational age, within the legal framework of Turkey. METHODS: This retrospective study was conducted between January 2021 and July 2023 at a tertiary perinatology center to analyze patients undergoing pregnancy termination. The process involved multidisciplinary evaluations and informed consent, resulting in 326 pregnancy terminations, categorized by gestational timing. RESULTS: Of the 326 patients studied, 219 opted for terminations. Gestational week at diagnosis significantly influenced the decision to terminate, with fetal anomalies being the primary indication. Chromosomal abnormalities accounted for 15.9% of the cases, while structural anomalies and maternal disorders accounted for 84.1% and structural malformations accounted for 84.1% of the cases. Late terminations (≥23 weeks) accounted for 30% of cases and required complex procedures. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that maternal demographic factors have a limited impact on termination decisions. Early diagnosis of fetal anomalies is crucial for informed decision-making and emotional support, and the psychological consequences of late termination highlight the need for maternal support. Obstetricians play a vital role in facilitating early intervention. This study underscores the complex medical, ethical, and psychological aspects of pregnancy termination due to fetal anomalies. It emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, considering medical, ethical, and psychological factors and the crucial role of healthcare professionals in supporting families during this challenging process.

Interrupciones voluntarias del embarazo recurrentes. Estudio de prevalencia y exploración de factores asociados. Antioquia, Colombia, 2015 - 2021 / Recurrent voluntary termination of pregnancy. Prevalence study and exploration of associated factors. Antioquia, Colombia, 2015 ­ 2021

Objetivos: Describir la prevalencia de las interrupciones voluntarias del embarazo (IVE) recurrentes y efectuar una exploración de los factores asociados a esta. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de corte trasversal descriptivo, en el que se incluyeron mujeres atendidas entre 2015 y 2021 en cinco sedes, en el Departamento de Antioquia, de una Institución que promueve la atención en salud sexual y reproductiva (SSR) en Colombia. Se midieron variables sociodemográficas, de SSR, así como la realización de IVE recurrente, tipo de procedimiento utilizado en la primera IVE, y método de anticoncepción elegido posterior a esta. Se presenta la prevalencia de período de aborto recurrente global y por año. Se hace exploración de los factores asociados por medio de análisis multivariado. Se obtuvo aval del comité de investigación de la institución. Resultados: Se incluyó un total de 20.423 mujeres. La prevalencia de IVE recurrente fue del 4,07 % (n = 831) en todo el período, y varió del 2,3 al 6 % en los 6 años. El método más utilizado para la IVE recurrente fue inducción farmacológica (48,50 %). Después de la primera IVE, el 69,81 % de las mujeres utilizó métodos anticonceptivos clasificados como "muy efectivos", según la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Se identificaron como factores de riesgo de la IVE recurrente pertenecer al régimen de aseguramiento subsidiado por el Estado (Odds ratio ajustado (ORa) = 1,35; IC 95 %: 1,05-1,72) y haber tenido dos o más gestaciones (ORa = 1,23; IC 95 %: 1,06 - 1,44). Como factores protectores se identificaron: contratación del servicio de IVE bajo modalidad de pago de bolsillo (ORa = 0,71; IC 95 %: 0,61-0,82), el antecedente de IVE tardía (ORa = 0,30; IC 95 %: 0,11-0,81), y la elección del implante subdérmico posterior al primer aborto primer aborto como (ORa =0,64; IC 95 %: 0,49 - 0,83). Conclusiones: La prevalencia de IVE recurrente posiblemente está incrementando. Se requieren estudios prospectivos que evalúen si existe una tendencia al incremento y que verifiquen posibles hipótesis de asociación que surgen de este trabajo.

Objectives: To describe the prevalence of recurrent voluntary termination of pregnancy (VTP) and to explore associated factors. Material and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional cohort study which included women seen between 2015 and 2021 in five sites of an institution located in the Department of Antioquia which promotes sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care in Colombia. Measured variables included sociodemographics, SRH, recurrent performance of VTP, type of procedure used in the first VTP and contraception method selected afterwards. The prevalence of global and yearly recurrent abortion period is presented. Associated factors were explored using a multivariate analysis. The research committee of the institution approved the study. Results: In total, 20,423 women were included. The prevalence of recurrent VTP was 4.07 % (n = 831) during the entire period, ranging between 2.3 and 6 % over the 7 years. The most commonly used method for recurrent VTP was pharmacological induction (48.50 %). After the first VTP, 69.81 % of women used contraceptive methods classified as "very effective" according to the World Health Organization. The risk factors identified as being associated with recurrent VTP included being part of the state-subsidized health insurance system (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.35; 95 % CI:1.05-1.72) and having had two or more pregnancies (aOR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.06 - 1.44). Protective factors were identified and included out-of-pocket payment for VTP service (aOR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.61-0.82), a history of late VTP (aOR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.11-0.81), and the selection of a subdermal implant for contraception following the first abortion (sOR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.49 - 0.83). Conclusions: It is possible that the prevalence of recurrent VTP is increasing. Prospective studies are required in order to determine whether there is a growing trend and to verify potential association hypotheses derived from this work.

Acciones para el aborto seguro durante la pandemia: el caso de las prácticas de dos organizaciones de Argentina / Actions for safe abortion during the pandemic: The case of the practices of two organizations in Argentina / Ações para o aborto seguro durante a pandemia: o caso das práticas de duas organizações na Argentina

Objetivo: abordar las acciones de acompañamiento a la interrupción legal y voluntaria del embarazo en el contexto de la pandemia por COVID-19 por parte de las organizaciones Socorristas en Red y la Red de Profesionales de la Salud por el Derecho a Decidir en Argentina. Metodología: se adoptó una metodología de investigación de tipo cualitativa con base en la realización de entrevistas en profundidad, semiestructurada, y cuestionarios de preguntas abiertas on-line orientados a conocer las experiencias de accionar de las integrantes de ambas redes respecto a los desafíos que significó la pandemia para continuar procesos de acompañamientos de abortos seguros. Conclusión: las medidas gubernamentales de Aislamiento Social, Preventivo y Obligatorio (ASPO) llevaron a una profundización de la obstrucción de derechos con relación al aborto que agravó procesos de desigualdades y vulnerabilidades existentes. Sin embargo, la pandemia del COVID-19 obligó a reforzar una red de cuidados feministas orientada a garantizar políticas de atencióny acompañamiento de aborto seguro.

Objective: to examine the initiatives undertakenby the organizations Socorristas en Redand Red de Profesionales de la Salud por el Derecho a Decidirin Argentina concerning the support and facilitation of legal and voluntary termination of pregnancy amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology:the research employs a qualitative approach, relying on in-depth, semi-structured interviews, and online questionnaires. These methodologies were designed to capture the experiential insights of network members, shedding light on the challenges encountered during the pandemic in sustaining the provision of support for safe abortion procedures. Conclusion:the implementation of Social, Preventive, and Compulsory Isolation (ASPO) measures during the COVID-19 pandemic heightened infringements on abortion-related rights, exacerbating societal inequalities and vulnerabilities. However, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the reinforcement of a resilient feminist care network dedicated to providing safe abortion services and supportive policies.

Objetivo: abordar as acções de acompanhamento desenvolvidas pelas organizações Socorristas en Red e Red de Profesionales de la Salud por el Derecho a Decidir na Argentina para apoiar a interrupção legal e voluntária da gravidez no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19. Metodologia: foi adoptada uma metodologia de investigação qualitativa baseada em entrevistas aprofundadas e semiestruturadase em questionários on-line, com o objetivo de conhecer as experiências de ação dos membros de ambas as redes no que diz respeito aos desafios colocados pela pandemia para a continuação dos processos de acompanhamento do aborto seguro. Conclusão: as medidas governamentais de Isolamento Social, Preventivo e Compulsório (ASPO) levaram a um aprofundamento da obstrução de direitos em relação ao aborto, o que agravou processos de desigualdade e vulnerabilidade já existentes. No entanto, a pandemia da COVID-19 forçou o fortalecimento de uma rede de atendimento feminista voltada para a garantia de políticas de atenção e acompanhamento ao aborto seguro

Impact of the intensive psychological intervention care on post-traumatic stress disorder and negative emotions of teenage female patients seeking an induced abortion.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effects of intensive psychological intervention care on adverse emotions and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in female teenage patients after induced abortion. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 100 teenage female patients seeking induced abortion who were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group (n = 50) and the control group (n = 50). The intervention group received intensive psychological intervention care, while the control group received standard routine nursing. The scores of the PTSD checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), self-rating depression (SDS), and self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) were compared between the two groups at 1 month and 3 months after the operation. Results: The intervention group had lower risk of developing PTSD (24% vs. 44%), depression (10% vs. 32%), and anxiety (0% vs. 12%) symptoms at 1 month after the surgery. However, there were no significant differences observed between the two groups at 3 months after the surgery. Furthermore, the intervention group had significantly lower scores in PCL-5 (27.4 ± 5.4 vs. 31.8 ± 5.7; 20.5 ± 7.1 vs. 25.0 ± 7.5; p < 0.05), SDS (31.8 ± 5.4 vs. 37.8 ± 6.6; 26.8 ± 5.0 vs. 31.4 ± 7.2; p < 0.05), and SAS (32.7 ± 5.0 vs. 39.8 ± 6.9; 25.0 ± 2.7 vs. 27.5 ± 2.8; p < 0.05) at 1 month and 3 months after induced abortion. Conclusion: These findings suggest that intensive psychological intervention care can reduce the incidence and severity of depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms in teenage patients who undergo induced abortion. Clinical trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=185200, identifier ChiCTR2300067531.

Significado de afrontar una interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía en mujeres que se realizaron el procedimiento en instituciones de salud de dos ciudades colombianas / Meaning of having to cope with voluntary termination of late pregnancy in women undergoing the procedure in healthcare institutions of two Colombian cities

Objetivos: El aborto es un derecho en salud sexual y reproductiva de la mujer en Colombia, sin embargo no toda la sociedad colombiana reconoce este derecho. Este trabajo busca comprender la transformación de los significados después de haber afrontado una interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía, en mujeres residentes en Colombia, y su interacción con familiares, amigos y sistema de salud. Materiales y métodos: Investigación hermenéutica desde un paradigma constructivista, el análisis se hizo desde una perspectiva feminista con técnicas de la teoría fundamentada: codificación, categorización y comparación constante. Se realizaron 19 entrevistas semiestructuradas a 18 mujeres residentes en Colombia que se sometieron a interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía definida por ser una gestación mayor a 20 semanas, acompañada de feticidio e inducción de parto, en dos ciudades colombianas, entre 2016 y 2020. Además, se realizaron dos grupos focales, uno con algunas de las entrevistadas, y otro con feministas expertas para triangular la información emergente del proceso investigativo y profundizar los hallazgos. Resultados: Las mujeres tenían un significado negativo y contrario sobre la interrupción voluntaria del embarazo, pero cuando se encuentran inmersas en una situación que las obliga a terminar con la gestación, contravienen los significados propios y los de su sociedad y buscan justificaciones que les ayuden a mantener la decisión. Esta confrontación las hace reflexionar profunda e íntimamente y las lleva a transformar sus vidas. Conclusiones: Los significados sobre el aborto, en las mujeres que se realizan interrupción voluntaria del embarazo tardía, generalmente son contrarios a este derecho en salud sexual y reproductiva. Posterior al evento estos significados se transforman por medio de la reflexión consciente de las mujeres al tener que enfrentar sus propios significados y los de la sociedad.

Objectives: As part of sexual and reproductive health, abortion is a woman's right in Colombia. However, not all the members of Colombian society recognize this right. The aim of this work is to understand the transformation of meanings after having to cope with voluntary termination of late pregnancy in women living in Colombia, as well as their interaction with family and friends and the health system. Material and methods: Hermeneutic research undertaken within a constructivist paradigm and analyzed from a feminist perspective using grounded theory techniques: coding, categorization and constant comparison. Nineteen semi-structured interviews were conducted among 18 women living in Colombia who underwent voluntary termination of late pregnancy defined as more than 20 weeks of gestation, accompanied by feticide and labor induction, in two Colombian cities between 2016 and 2020. Besides, two focus groups were conducted, one with some of the interviewees and another with feminist experts in order to cross-reference the information derived from the research process and delve deeper into the findings. Results: Women attached a negative and opposite meaning to voluntary termination of pregnancy, but once they found themselves in a situation that forced them to put an end to gestation, they transgressed their own meanings and those of society to find justifications to help them uphold their decision. This confrontation brought them to a place of profound and intimate reflection and led them to transform their lives. Conclusions: Meanings regarding abortion in women who undergo late pregnancy termination are usually contrary to this right in sexual and reproductive health. After the event, these meanings become transformed through a process of conscious reflection as women come face-to-face with their own meanings and those of society.

Pentalogía de Cantrell diagnosticada en el primer trimestre: reporte de caso / Cantrell's pentalogy diagnosed in the first trimester: case report

La pentalogía de Cantrell es una rara anomalía congénita caracterizada por la asociación de ectopia cordis con defectos en la pared toracoabdominal, el diafragma, el esternón y pericárdicos, y anomalías cardíacas intrínsecas. En diagnóstico prenatal, la ecografía se utiliza sistemáticamente entre las 11 y 14 semanas de gestación, evaluando marcadores de alteraciones cromosómicas como la sonolucencia nucal, el hueso nasal y la morfología patológica del ductus venoso, entre otros. Además, permite examinar la anatomía fetal y diagnosticar anomalías mayores, como acrania-anencefalia, holoprosencefalia, defectos de la pared abdominal y toracoabdominal, entre los que se incluye la pentalogía de Cantrell. Se reporta un feto con los hallazgos clásicos de pentalogía de Cantrell, que fue expulsado a las 13 semanas de gestación bajo protocolo de interrupción voluntaria del embarazo. Madre de 23 años, G1P0, sin exposiciones teratogénicas, en cuyo feto se encontró ectopia cordis, asas intestinales e hígado por fuera de la cavidad abdominal en las 10 y 12 semanas de gestación. El objetivo de este estudio es aportar a la literatura un reporte de pentalogía de Cantrell, siendo el primero reportado en Colombia en el primer trimestre de gestación, mostrando la importancia de la ecografía sistemática durante este periodo, en el marco de la posibilidad de interrupción voluntaria del embarazo.

Cantrells pentalogy is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by the association of ectopia cordis with intrinsic cardiac anomalies and various anatomical defects found in the thoracoabdominal wall, diaphragm, sternum and pericardium. Ultrasound is used routinely between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation during prenatal diagnosis. It evaluates markers of chromosomal alterations such as nuchal sonolucency, the nasal bone, and the pathological morphology of the ductus venosus, among others. Furthermore, it allows the diagnosis of altered fetal anatomy and major abnormalities such as acrania-anencephaly, holoprosencephaly, abdominal and thoraco-abdominal wall defects including Cantrells pentalogy. In this case report, we present a fetus with the classic findings of Cantrells pentalogy, which was expelled during the 13th week of gestation under the protocol of voluntary interruption of pregnancy. The mother, a 23-year-old woman, G1P0, without teratogenic exposures, in whom during the routine ultrasound of the 10th and 12th weeks of gestation ectopia cordis, intestinal loops and liver outside the abdominal cavity were found on the fetus. The main objective of this study is to contribute to the literature a case report of pentalogy of Cantrell, diagnosed through prenatal ultrasound, being the first reported in Colombia during first trimester of gestation, showing the importance of routine ultrasound, in the context of access to a voluntary termination of pregnancy.

National Abortion Survey - Brazil, 2021 / Pesquisa Nacional de Aborto - Brasil, 2021

Abstract The National Abortion Survey 2021 (PNA 2021) utilized face-to-face structured interviews and a self-administered questionnaire placed in a sealed box to collect data on abortions in Brazil. Interviews were held with a nationally representative sample of 2,000 women, randomly selected from among literate women ages 18 to 39 residing in urban areas. We compared some of the results with previous waves of the survey, PNA 2010 and PNA 2016. Findings show that abortion is in decline but remains a major public health issue. Around 10% of the women interviewed in 2021 said they had had at least one abortion in their lives (compared to 15% in 2010). We estimate that nearly one in every seven women (15%) have had an abortion by the age of 40. We identified a decline in the proportion of women who needed to be hospitalized to finalize their abortions (55% in 2010; 43% in 2021; p = 0.003) and in the proportion of women who used medication for the abortion (48% in 2010; 39% in 2021; p = 0.028). Abortion is an event that generally happens early on in women's reproductive lives: the PNA 2021 found that 52% of women were 19 years old or younger when they had their first abortion. Higher rates were detected among respondents with lower educational levels, Black and Indigenous women, and women residing in poorer regions.

Resumo A Pesquisa Nacional de Aborto 2021 (PNA 2021) empregou questionários estruturados face a face e um questionário autoadministrado depositado em uma urna para coletar informações sobre aborto no Brasil. As entrevistas foram realizadas em uma amostra representativa de 2.000 mulheres selecionadas aleatoriamente com idades entre 18 e 39 anos e residentes em áreas urbanas. Comparamos alguns dos resultados com ondas anteriores da pesquisa, PNA 2010 e PNA 2016. O aborto está em declínio, porém segue como importante questão de saúde pública. Cerca de 10% das mulheres em 2021 disseram ter feito ao menos um aborto na vida (15% em 2010). Estimamos que aproximadamente uma em cada sete mulheres (15%) teve um aborto aos 40 anos. Houve declínio na proporção de mulheres que foram hospitalizadas para finalizar o aborto (55% em 2010; 43% em 2021; p = 0,003) e na proporção de mulheres que usaram medicamentos para o aborto (48% em 2010; 39% em 2021; p = 0,028). O aborto é um evento que ocorre no início na vida reprodutiva das mulheres: a PNA 2021 constatou que 52% tinham 19 anos ou menos quando fizeram o primeiro aborto. Taxas mais altas foram detectadas entre as entrevistadas com menor escolaridade, negras e indígenas e residentes em regiões mais pobres.

Factores sociodemográficos de las gestantes de un policlínico de Guantánamo, que interrumpieron voluntariamente el embarazo

Introducción: la interrupción voluntaria del embarazo -aborto inducido o provocado-, a pesar de ser una temática antigua, continúa siendo un problema social que afecta no solo a la mujer, sino también a la familia y la comunidad, en aspectos políticos, socioeconómicos, culturales y religiosos. Objetivo: caracterizar las interrupciones voluntarias del embarazo, según variables sociodemográficas en el Policlínico Universitario Hermanos Martínez Tamayo. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal en el Policlínico Universitario Hermanos Martínez Tamayo, del municipio Baracoa, provincia de Guantánamo, durante el año 2021. La muestra obtenida de 111 pacientes fue seleccionada por muestreo no probabilístico intencionado. El dato primario se obtuvo de la historia clínica individual y de encuestas realizadas a las pacientes. Resultados: se observó un predominio del grupo de edad de 20 a 24 años, con 36 pacientes (32,4 %). Las mujeres de zona urbana fueron la mayoría, con 79 (71,2 %). Respecto al estado civil, predominaron las solteras (56,7 %) y las divorciadas (19,8 %). El 36,9 % estaban en la universidad o contaban con nivel universitario y el 45,9 % eran de ocupación estudiante. Conclusiones: el tratamiento de algunos determinantes sociodemográficos en las características de las interrupciones voluntarias del embarazo, permite entender su variabilidad y su constitución como problema de salud en el Policlínico Universitario Hermanos Martínez Tamayo.

Introduction: the voluntary interruption of pregnancy -induced or provoked abortion- despite being an old issue, continues to be a social problem that affects not only women, but also family and community in political, socio-economic, cultural and religious aspects. Objective: to characterize the voluntary interruptions of pregnancy, according to socio-demographic variables in the University Polyclinic Hermanos Martinez Tamayo. Materials and methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out in the University Polyclinic Hermanos Martinez Tamayo, from the municipality of Baracoa, province of Guantanamo, during 2021. The sample obtained from 111 patients was selected by intentioned, non-probabilistic sampling. The primary data were obtained from the individual clinical records and from surveys carried out on the patients. Results: the age group between 20 and 24 years predominated with 36 patients (32.4%). Urban women were the majority 79 (71.2%). Regarding marital status single (56.7%) and divorced (19.8%) women predominated. 36.9% studied in the university or finished university studies, and 45.9% were students. Conclusions: the treatment of some socio-demographic determinants in the characteristics of pregnancy voluntary interruptions, allows us to understand its variability and its constitution as a health problem in the University Polyclinic Hermanos Martinez Tamayo.

Factor VII Deficiency and Second Trimester Abortion: A Case Report.

The prevalence of factor VII deficiency (F7D) is 1 in 500,000. Due to its rarity, the management of bleeding disorders in pregnancy is not well established. We examine a case of an 18-year-old (gravida 1, para 0) woman at approximately 19 weeks gestation with a known history of F7D who presents after a motor vehicle accident. Fetal demise was confirmed necessitating a medical induction. She also had multiple fractures requiring surgical intervention. A multidisciplinary team consisting of orthopedic surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and hematology/oncology was consulted for optimal timing of factor VII replacement prior to procedures. The patient underwent successful left tibial intramedullary nailing with minimal bleeding. She received factor VII and tolerated an uncomplicated vaginal delivery. Her postpartum and postoperative courses were uncomplicated, requiring one unit of packed red blood cells. The patient was discharged on postpartum day three. Management of this second-trimester abortion with a history of F7D was possible with effective communication and the organization of a multidisciplinary team to account for the risk of thrombosis versus hemorrhage and the availability of factor VII replacement therapy.

Does lower use of academic affiliation by university faculty in top U.S. newspapers contribute to misinformation about abortion?

BACKGROUND: University faculty are considered trusted sources of information to disseminate accurate information to the public that abortion is a common, safe and necessary medical health care service. However, misinformation persists about abortion's alleged dangers, commonality, and medical necessity. METHODS: Systematic review of popular media articles related to abortion, gun control (an equally controversial topic), and cigarette use (a more neutral topic) published in top U.S. newspapers between January 2015 and July 2020 using bivariate analysis and logistic regression to compare disclosure of university affiliation among experts in each topic area. RESULTS: We included 41 abortion, 102 gun control, and 130 smoking articles, which consisted of 304 distinct media mentions of university-affiliated faculty. Articles with smoking and gun control faculty experts had statistically more affiliations mentioned (90%, n = 195 and 88%, n = 159, respectively) than abortion faculty experts (77%, n = 54) (p = 0.02). The probability of faculty disclosing university affiliation was similar between smoking and gun control (p = 0.73), but between smoking and abortion was significantly less (Ave Marginal Effects - 0.13, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Fewer faculty members disclose their university affiliation in top U.S. newspapers when discussing abortion. Lack of academic disclosure may paradoxically make these faculty appear less 'legitimate.' This leads to misinformation, branding abortion as a 'choice,' suggesting it is an unessential medical service. With the recent U.S. Supreme Court landmark decision, Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, and subsequent banning of abortion in many U.S. states, faculty will probably be even less likely to disclose their university affiliation in the media than in the past.

Conhecimento e percepção dos enfermeiros e médicos sobre moralidade do aborto induzido e sua legislação / Knowledge and perception of nurses and physicians about morality of induced abortion and its legislation / Conocimiento y percepción de enfermeras y médicos sobre la moralidad del aborto inducido y su legislación

Objetivo: Relatar o conhecimento e a percepção dos profissionais enfermeiros e médicos sobre a moralidade do aborto induzido e sua legislação. Métodos: Estudo quantitativo, envolvendo 39 Enfermeiros e Médicos de duas Maternidades do sul do Brasil. Para a coleta de dados foi utilizado o "Mosaico de Opiniões Sobre o Aborto Induzido" e um questionário complementar. Para análise descritiva e associações foi utilizado o pacote estatístico Data Analysis and Statistical Software. Resultados: Constatou-se que os profissionais possuem adequado conhecimento a respeito da legislação, conhecimento insuficiente a respeito dos documentos necessários para o aborto legal e sobre o direito a objeção de consciência, sendo este último principalmente entre os enfermeiros. Os profissionais defendem outras possibilidades de aborto na legislação, e a respeito do Mosaico, predominam os padrões liberais em comparação aos conservadores. Conclusão: Se faz necessária a discussão sobre o tema, ampliando o conhecimento a respeito dos direitos sexuais e reprodutivos das mulheres e sobre a conduta durante a assistência ao aborto. (AU)

Objective: Report the knowledge and perception of nurses and physicians about the morality of induced abortion and its legislation. Methods: Quantitative study, involving 39 nurses and physicians at two maternity hospitals in southern Brazil. For data collection the "Mosaic of Opinions on Induced Abortion" and a complementary questionnaire were used. For descriptive analysis and associations, the Data Analysis and Statistical Software statistical package was used. Results: It was found that the professionals have adequate knowledge about the legislation, insufficient knowledge about the documents necessary for legal abortion and about the right to conscientious objection, the latter occurred mainly among nurses. Professionals defend other possibilities of abortion in the legislation, and regarding the Mosaic, liberal standards prevail in comparison to conservatives. Conclusion: It is necessary to discuss the topic, expanding knowledge about women's sexual and reproductive rights and about conduct during abortion care. (AU)

Objetivo: Informar el conocimiento y percepción de enfermeras y médicos profesionales sobre la moralidad del aborto inducido y su legislación. Métodos: Estudio cuantitativo, que involucró a 39 enfermeras y médicos de dos maternidades del sur de Brasil. Para la recolección de datos se utilizó el "Mosaico de Opiniones sobre el Aborto Inducido" y un cuestionario complementario. Para el análisis descriptivo y las asociaciones se utilizó el paquete estadístico Data Analysis and Statistical Software. Resultados: Se constató que los profesionales tienen conocimiento adecuado sobre la legislación, conocimiento insuficiente sobre los documentos necesarios para el aborto legal y sobre el derecho a la objeción de conciencia, siendo este último principalmente entre enfermeras. Los profesionales defienden otras posibilidades de aborto en la legislación, y con respecto a Mosaic, los estándares liberales prevalecen en comparación con los conservadores. Conclusión: Es necesario discutir el tema, ampliando el conocimiento sobre los derechos sexuales y reproductivos de las mujeres y sobre la conducta durante la atención del aborto. (AU)

Incidence of Childbirth, Pregnancy, Spontaneous Abortion, and Induced Abortion Among Women With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in a Nationwide Matched Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Reproductive health in women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (WWH) has improved in recent decades. We aimed to investigate incidences of childbirth, pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, and induced abortion among WWH in a nationwide, population-based, matched cohort study. METHODS: We included all WWH aged 20-40 years treated at an HIV healthcare center in Denmark from 1995 to 2021 and a matched comparison cohort of women from the general population (WGP). We calculated incidence rates per 1000 person-years and used Poisson regression to calculate adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRRs) of childbirth, pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, and induced abortion stratified according to calendar periods (1995-2001, 2002-2008, and 2009-2021). RESULTS: We included 1288 WWH and 12 880 WGP; 46% of WWH were of African origin, compared with 1% of WGP. Compared with WGP, WWH had a decreased incidence of childbirth (aIRR, 0.6 [95% confidence interval, .6-.7]), no difference in the incidence of pregnancy (0.9 [.8-1.0]) or spontaneous abortion (0.9 [.8-1.0]), but an increased incidence of induced abortion (1.9 [1.6-2.1]) from 1995 to 2021. The aIRRs for childbirth, pregnancy, and spontaneous abortion increased from 1995-2000 to 2009-2021, while the aIRR for induced abortion remained increased across all time periods for WWH. CONCLUSIONS: From 1995 to 2008, the incidences of childbirth, pregnancy, and spontaneous abortion were decreased among WWH compared with WGP. From 2009 to 2021, the incidence of childbirth, pregnancy, and spontaneous abortion no longer differed among WWH compared with WGP. The incidence of induced abortions remains increased compared with WGP.

Ultrasonographic features of the endometrium following successful medical termination of early pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE: Ultrasonographic features of the endometrium are often assessed when deciding the necessity of surgical intervention following early medical abortion. Knowledge is therefore needed on the ultrasonographic appearance of the endometrium following successful medical abortion in order to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions. We aimed to assess endometrial thickness and echogenicity at multiple time points following successful early medical abortion. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective study in the largest office-based abortion providing clinic in Denmark. Using archived ultrasonographic images, we assessed endometrial thickness and echogenicity following all early medical abortions that did not need surgical intervention or repeated medication for completion during the years 2014-2017. RESULTS: Ultrasonographic endometrial features were assessed 1854 times following 1074 early medical abortions. Median endometrial thickness in the 1st week from induction was 13 milimeters (mm; lower-upper quartile 11-17 mm). For the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and >4th week, the median endometrial thickness was found to be 11 mm (9-15 mm), 11 mm (8-14 mm), 12 mm (9-16 mm), and 11 mm (8-14 mm), respectively. Of the ultrasonographic examinations performed in the 1st week from medical induction, 24.7 % showed a heterogenous endometrium. For 2nd, 3rd, 4th, >4th week, the frequency of heterogeneity was 23.9 %, 16.3 %, 21.3 %, 18.9 %, respectively. A total of 151 abortions (14.1 %) were each examined three times, median time of examination being day 7, 15, and 26 following induction. Among these abortions, the three most common patterns of change in endometrial thickness were "decreasing" (37.7 %), "increasing-decreasing" (23.2 %), and "decreasing-increasing" (21.9 %). Further, 49.7 % of the 151 abortions showed a homogenous endometrium at all three examinations, 17.2 % showed a heterogenous endometrium at first examination and a homogenous endometrium the following two examinations, and 9.9 % showed a heterogenous endometrium at the first two examinations followed by a homogenous endometrium. CONCLUSION: In early medical abortions completed without secondary intervention, endometrial thickness and echogenicity varied clinically significantly for weeks following the medical induction. Every possible pattern of change in endometrial thickness and echogenicity was observed.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Brazilian Physicians about Immediate Postpartum and Postabortion Intrauterine Device Insertion / Conhecimento, atitude e prática de médicos brasileiros sobre inserção de dispositivo intrauterino no pós-parto e pós-aborto imediatos

Abstract Objective To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Brazilian physicians about immediate postpartum and postabortion intrauterine device insertion. Methods Cross-sectional online survey involving physicians on duty in public Brazilian hospitals. Participants answered an anonymous questionnaire with close-ended questions to assess their knowledge, attitude, and experience on the immediate postpartum and postabortion insertion of copper intrauterine devices. Results One hundred twenty-seven physicians working in 23 hospitals in the 5 geographic regions of Brazil completed the questionnaire. Most were female (68.5%) and worked in teaching hospitals (95.3%). The mean (standard deviation) knowledge score (0-10 scale) was 5.3 (1.3); only 27.6% of the participants had overall scores ≥7.0. Most physicians (73.2%) would insert a postpartum intrauterine device in themselves/family members. About 42% of respondents stated that they had not received any training on postpartum or postabortion intrauterine device insertion. In the past 12 months, 19.7%, 22.8%, and 53.5% of respondents stated they had not inserted any intrauterine device during a cesarean section, immediately after a vaginal delivery, or after an abortion, respectively. Conclusion Most study participants have a positive attitude toward the insertion of intrauterine devices in the immediate postpartum period, but they have limited knowledge about the use of this contraceptive method. A large percentage of respondents did not have previous training on postpartum and postabortion intrauterine device insertion and had not performed any such insertions in the last 12 months. Strategies are needed to improve the knowledge, training, and experience of Brazilian physicians on immediate postpartum and postabortion intrauterine device insertion.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o conhecimento, atitude e prática de médicos brasileiros sobre a inserção de dispositivos intrauterinos no pós-parto e pós-aborto imediatos. Métodos Estudo transversal com inquérito online envolvendo médicos plantonistas de hospitais públicos brasileiros. Os participantes responderam a um questionário anônimo com perguntas fechadas para avaliar seu conhecimento, atitude e experiência sobre a inserção de dispositivos intrauterinos de cobre no pós-parto e pós-aborto imediatos. Resultados Cento e vinte sete médicos de 23 hospitais localizados nas 5 regiões do Brasil preencheram o questionário. A maioria era do sexo feminino (68,5%) e trabalhava em hospitais de ensino (95,3%). O escore médio (desvio padrão) de conhecimento (escala 0-10) foi 5,3 (1,3); apenas 27,6% tiveram escore ≥7,0. A maioria (73,2%) faria inserção de dispositivo intrauterino no pós-parto imediato em si mesma/familiares. Cerca de 42% dos participantes declararam não ter recebido nenhum treinamento sobre inserção de dispositivos intrauterinos no pós-parto ou pós-aborto imediatos. Nos últimos 12 meses, 19,7%, 22,8% e 53,5% declararam não ter inserido nenhum dispositivo intrauterino durante uma cesárea, após um parto vaginal ou um aborto, respectivamente. Conclusão A maioria dos participantes tem uma atitude positiva em relação à inserção de dispositivos intrauterinos no pós-parto imediato, porém tem um conhecimento limitado sobre esse método. Uma grande porcentagem dos respondentes não teve treinamento sobre inserção de dispositivos intrauterinos no pós-parto ou pós-aborto imediatos e não fez nenhuma inserção desse tipo nos últimos 12 meses. São necessárias estratégias para melhorar o conhecimento, o treinamento e a experiência dos médicos brasileiros sobre a inserção de dispositivos intrauterinos no pós-parto e pós-aborto imediatos.

Clinical features of the predilection and severer sites of intrauterine adhesions. / å®«è ”ç²˜è¿žå¥½å‘å’Œç›¸å¯¹ä¸¥é‡éƒ¨ä½çš„ä¸´åºŠç‰¹å¾.

OBJECTIVES: Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) refers to the adhesions between the myometrium of the uterine cavity, which is secondary to damage to the basal layer of the endometrium due to trauma or infection. The occurrence of IUA is mainly related to intrauterine operations. Hysteroscopic adhesiolysis (HA) is the standard surgical treatment for IUA. But the recurrence rate of IUA after HA is still high. Importantly, endometrium recovery is difficult, resulting in unsatisfied prognosis for moderate to severer IUA patients. Therefore, it is important to take effective primary preventive measures against the etiology to avoid endometrium damage from medical surgery. In this paper, we discuss and analyze predilection and severer sites of intrauterine adhesions, aiming to provide a basis for how to avoid and reduce injuries during intrauterine operations, such as abortion, dilation and curettage. METHODS: In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the surgical videos of patients who underwent HA for the first time from January 2019 to December 2021 in the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University so as to assess the area of adhesions and predilection and severer sites of occurrence of adhesions, and we collected 657 patients who underwent HA for the first time, including 81 patients with total IUA and 576 patients with partial IUA. We counted and analyzed the number and composition ratio of partial IUA patients with severer sites of damage to the lateral wall of the uterine cavity and severerr sites of damage to each segment of the uterine cavity. RESULTS: Among 576 patients with partial IUA, there were 60 patients with no significant difference in the degree of adhesions between the right and left sides, 143 patients with severer adhesions on the left side of the uterine cavity, and 373 patients with severer adhesions on the right side of the uterine cavity. There was a difference in the severity of damage of left and right lateral wall. The proportion of patients with severer adhesions on the right side of the uterine cavity (64.8%) was higher than that of patients with adhesions on the left side of the uterine cavity (24.8%), and there was statistically difference (P<0.05). There was 93 patients with severer adhesions at the fundus or bilateral horn of the uterus, 190 patients with severer adhesions at the middle and upper part of the uterine cavity, 245 patients with severer adhesions at the middle and lower part of the uterine cavity and at the endocervix, and 48 patients with no significant difference in the degree of adhesions in each part. The proportion of patients with severer adhesions at the middle and lower part of the uterine cavity and at the endocervix was higher (42.5%) than those with adhesions in the fundus or bilateral horn of the uterus (16.1%) and in the middle and upper part of the uterine cavity (33.0%), and there were statistically differences (both P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The predilection site of IUA is the lateral wall of the uterine cavity. The severer adhesions is in the right lateral wall of the uterine cavity, the middle and lower segments and the endocervix, which may be related to the operating habits of the surgeon. Therefore, gynecologists should minimize damage to the lateral wall of the uterine cavity, especially the right lateral wall in performing uterine operations (more attention should be paid by right-handed physicians). Besides, we should pay attention to protecting the middle and lower segments of the uterine cavity and the endocervix, avoiding maintaining negative pressure to withdraw the uterine tissue suction tube from the uterine cavity during abortion procedures to minimize damage.