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March 23, 2000

Post-Abortion Care and Appropriate Contraceptives

Our program is starting to promote post-abortion care (PAC) after unsafe abortions have occurred, in part to prevent future abortions. Of course, part of PAC is offering appropriate contraception. Which contraceptive methods are appropriate after an abortion?

Any method is medically appropriate right away. However, there may be special complications secondary to the abortion that may affect the appropriateness of use. (Bear in mind that most of the time PAC does not involve such complications):

• with septic abortion or pelvic inflammatory disease - IUD use or tubal sterilization should at least be delayed.
• with significant injury to the genital tract - IUD use or tubal sterilization may need to be delayed. Also, diaphragm and cervical cap fitting may be affected.
• severe anemia may require delay or special care in providing tubal sterilization.

Also, NFP may be difficult to practice until the next menstrual period, and IUD expulsion rates may be higher after a second-trimester abortion.

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The "Pearls" offer answers to commonly asked questions about family planning. These "Pearls" are prepared by Dr. James D. Shelton, Senior Medical Scientist, Office of Population, United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

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