Research Project on the Evaluation of the Use of Mifepristone and Misoprostol Packaged Together for Termination of Pregnancy After Drug Registration in Thailand
Dr. Prawit Chawachalasai, Bureau of Reproductive Health, Department of Health
HEALTH_Vol40No4_09
Abstract
The study evaluates the use of mifepristone and misoprostol packaged together for the termination of pregnancy after drug registration in Thailand. The objective is to study the situation of drug use and the results of using mifepristone and misoprostol packaged together for the termination of pregnancy when in the normal service system of service units after drug registration in Thailand. The study method is a descriptive study, collecting data from the data record form in the MTP-03-2 report and the medical abortion report form.
The target group is those who received drug use services between January 2015 and December 2016, totaling 2,305 cases. Data analysis used descriptive statistics to find numbers and percentages. The study found that service recipients included both adolescents and adults aged between 12-49 years, with the highest number being 20 years old. The age group 18-24 years used the service the most at 34.40%, and 14.75% were under 18 years old.
The most common reason for pregnancy termination was psychological problems, found at 75.40%. The Northeast region provided the most services at 39.13%, followed by the North at 30.85%. The type of service unit that provided the most services was private clinics (Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand) at 35.23%, followed by district hospitals at 34.97%. The drug use was highly effective, with complete abortion found at 93.64%, and if used with a gestational age not exceeding 9 weeks (63 days), it was more effective with complete abortion at 95.63%, consistent with the pilot project study that found effectiveness over 95%. The most chosen contraceptive method was oral contraceptive pills at 31.47%, followed by contraceptive implants at 29.38%, and the least chosen method was intrauterine devices at 0.72%.
The use of mifepristone and misoprostol packaged together for the termination of pregnancy is a highly effective option for women with unplanned pregnancies, significantly reducing severe complications from illegal abortions and reducing the risk from procedures.
Therefore, various related agencies, including the Bureau of Reproductive Health, Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health, National Health Security Office, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Thailand, Nursing Council, medical schools, hospitals, and service facilities both public and private, schools, communities, and NGOs that facilitate service referrals, such as Path 2 Health and Women on Web, must play a key role in promoting and supporting the expansion of the drug-based pregnancy termination service system to cover the entire country and ensure sustainability. Keywords: drugs for pregnancy termination, drug registration in Thailand
Source: Journal of Health Promotion and Environmental Health, Volume 40, October – December 2017