Ambato

Researchers are evaluating a telemedicine model for providing medication abortion services to women in Ecuador who are less than 12 weeks pregnant. The study aims to demonstrate that this remote approach is safe, feasible, and acceptable to users seeking abortion care. It focuses on supporting the sexual and reproductive rights of Ecuadorian women by offering a service comparable in quality to in-person medical abortion procedures. The study involves enrolling 100 women who contact private providers to obtain a medication abortion. Eligible participants receive a study package shipped to their address containing misoprostol tablets, ibuprofen, and instructions for use. The medication regimen includes at least three doses of misoprostol taken sublingually every three hours, with additional tablets available if needed. Providers offer counseling and informed consent remotely via telephone or video calls and may prescribe other medications as necessary. Participants are followed up 10 to 15 days after taking misoprostol through telephone interviews to assess abortion completion using methods like symptom checklists, pregnancy tests, or ultrasound. If needed, participants receive guidance on taking additional doses or obtaining further care. An exit interview gathers feedback on satisfaction and any challenges encountered. Safety is monitored by documenting adverse events within six weeks.