Termination of Pregnancy

Question 1

What is the upper limit for termination of pregnancy in the UK?

Answer 1

24 weeks

Question 2

Which methods are used for termination of pregnancy?

Which drugs are used in medical TOP?

Answer 2

Medical vs. surgical

Mifepristone followed by misoprostol 48 hours later

Question 3

Is it normal to have a positive urinary pregnancy test following termination of pregnancy?

Answer 3

Urine pregnancy test may remain positive for up to 4 weeks following termination

Question 4

Describe the mechanism of action of mifepristone

Answer 4

Mifepristone is an anti-progestogen (progesterone is required for the pregnancy to continue)

Question 5

Describe the mechanism of action of misoprostol

Answer 5

Misoprostol is a prostaglandin analogue, which works by stimulating uterine contraction

Question 6

What additional management needs to be considered in Rhesus negative women having a TOP?

Answer 6

Anti-D prophylaxis:

• Women having a medical TOP: from 10 weeks gestation onwards
• All women having a surgical TOP