What Works: A Policy and Program Guide to the Evidence on Postabortion Care

Since the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development, postabortion care (PAC) has been recognized as a high priority issue by over 180 nations. PAC is a four-component, integrated service delivery model for treating women experiencing complications from incomplete abortion and treating the unmet need for family planning (FP). This literature review serves to provide the reader a comprehensive summary of PAC, documented in over 400 studies, describing evidence-based “best practices,” while highlighting gaps in the literature. The evidence from this tool can be employed by international professional organizations, country ministries and policymakers to inform policy and guide programs. When emergency treatment is needed, Vacuum Aspiration (VA) or treatment with Misoprostol is effective, coupled with pain management. FP intake increases when provided at the same time and location of treatment. Provision of STI and HIV counseling and services where human and financial resources are available are essential to PAC. Men and community health workers play an important role in supporting women following incomplete abortion. Finally, attention to policy and program issues can eliminate barriers to, and encourage provision of, PAC services, especially to marginalized populations.