Repeat abortion in Denmark

A study of 50 women undergoing first-time induced abortion and 50 women undergoing second-time induced abortion is reported. Although repeat aborters can not be characterised as a special group of women, it is important that initiatives be taken to reduce the incidence of repeat induced abortion. A suggestion for possible intervention is a thorough post-abortion contraceptive counselling and follow up of women who undergo initial induced abortion. Further general improvement in sex education and use of contraceptive methods is necessary. In this area, avoidance of risk-taking is very important as well as caution during periods of change from one contraceptive method to another. Generally, use of contraceptive methods with a very high effectiveness must be recommended, i.e. oral contraceptives, IUDs, and sterilisation.