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: Suggest the following medication regimens: Mifepristone 200 mg orally 24–48 hours prior to the procedure; Misoprostol 400 μg sublingually 1–2 hours prior to the procedure; Misoprostol 400 μg vaginally or buccally 2–3 hours prior to the procedure.
Recommended in favor
Conditional
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