Nonpharmaceutical Pain Control Adjuncts During First‐Trimester Aspiration Abortion: A Review

Abstract

The data included in this critical review did not demonstrate a relationship between the nonpharmacologic interventions and pain or anxiety scores, yet participants endorsed these as positive and helpful. Women found value in these supportive interventions, and ongoing investigation into these techniques is warranted.

Women's Health across the Lifespan: A Continuing Education Theme Issue

“…This study demonstrates that APCs’ outcomes when performing aspiration abortion with immediate intrauterine device insertion are comparable to those of physicians . Tschann et al review use of nonpharmaceutical pain management methods during first‐trimester surgical abortion . Although these interventions did not reduce pain or anxiety scores, women strongly endorsed their use.…”

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Pain Management of Aspiration Abortion up to 83 Days of Gestation

“…2 Despite the prevalence of the procedure, the optimal approach to managing pain with the procedure has yet to be identified. 3,4 Pain management is commonly provided via paracervical block in combination with oral medications or moderate intravenous (IV) sedation with fentanyl and midazolam. In conjunction with paracervical block, abortion clients receiving IV sedation report clinically significantly less pain compared with those receiving oral sedation.…”