Experience with prostaglandins for therapeutic abortion in Norway. Their need and their benefits

Since 1977 the number of therapeutic abortions has been decreasing in Norway, a trend which is probably due to improved contraceptive practice. The results with PGs used for cervical dilatation in late first trimester and induction of abortion in the second trimester are reported. Pretreatment overnight or for 3-4 hours simplified the surgical procedure and Sulprostone (Schering AG) caused fewer side effects than 15(S) 15 Me F2 alpha. In the second trimester 15(S) 15 Me F2 alpha was administered by different routes and in different doses. 16,16 diMe trans delta 2E2 was given only as vaginal suppositories. Side effects were fewer by the intraamniotic route than by the other routes. The need for and benefits of PGs for therapeutic abortions are discussed.