Bibliographic information

GuidelineAbortion care guideline, 2nd ed
Year of Publication2024
Issuing InstitutionWorld Health Organization

Recommendation

New

Prior to surgical abortion at < 12 weeks: If cervical priming is used: Recommend against the use of osmotic dilators for cervical priming

Recommended against

Strong

Notes and Remarks

Remarks

  • The sublingual route is more effective for misoprostol administration.
  • Appropriate pain medication should be provided.

KEY HUMAN RIGHTS CONSIDERATIONS RELEVANT TO CERVICAL PRIMING

  • Denial of cervical priming as punishment for abortion or because it is part of abortion care may violate the right to non-discrimination and equality. For further information and sources, please refer to Box 1.2 and Web annex A: Key international human rights standards on abortion