Understanding factors influencing request for a repeat termination of pregnancy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess factors influencing request for a termination of pregnancy (TOP).


METHODS
A questionnaire based, prospective study of 150 women requesting a TOP. This questionnaire contained a modified version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).


METHODS
Of the 150 women requesting a TOP, 100 were seeking a TOP for the first time and the remaining 50 had at least one TOP in the past.


RESULTS
Forty-five percent of women requesting termination of the first pregnancy were under the age of 20, 62% earned less than 10,000 Pounds per year and 12% did not use any form of contraception. Ninety-eight percent knew about emergency contraception but only 3% used it. The repeat termination group were older (only 24% under the age of 20). Fifty-five percent earned less than 10,000 Pounds per year, 15% did not use any contraception, 92% knew about emergency contraception but only 10% used it. Both groups were highly satisfied with the counselling, explanation about the procedure and future contraception advice. However, about 60% of women in both groups had suffered from mild to moderate depression as a consequence of termination.


CONCLUSIONS
This study confirms the need for easy availability of emergency contraception and emphasises the importance of education about contraception in general.
Tewari
S K
SK
Forth Park Hospital, 30 Bennochy Rd, Kirkcaldy, Fife.
Diaz-Morales
O
O
Urquhart
D R
DR
Mahmood
T A
TA
D000028:Abortion, Induced / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000328:Adult; D003281:Contraceptives, Postcoital; D005193:Family Planning Services; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D009042:Motivation; D011247:Pregnancy; D037841:Pregnant People / Q000523:psychology*; D012606:Scotland
D003281:Contraceptives, Postcoital