Evidence for preventing infection in abortion care

Abstract

There is controversy of whether prophylaxis treatment or a ‘‘screen and treat'' policy should be adopted for preventing infective complications when women undergo abortion. There is currently compelling evidence that indicates that a universal policy of prophylaxis treatment to all women undergoing abortion should receive antibiotics. It is also a cost-effective policy.

Key words:

• Antibiotics
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea
• Induced abortion
• Infection