Abortions Tied to Subsequent Preterm Delivery
Reuters Health Information 2005. � 2005 Reuters Ltd.
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By David Douglas
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) Apr 27 - Having previously had an induced abortion is associated with the birth of very preterm (22 to 33 weeks of gestation) singletons, French researchers report in the April issue of the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Dr. Caroline Moreau of Hopital de Bicetre, Le Kremlin Bicetre and colleagues note that there had been much debate on the effect of induced abortions on subsequent pregnancies. However, studies have failed to reach clear conclusions.
To investigate further, the researchers examined data on 1943 very preterm singletons, 276 moderately preterm singletons and 618 unmatched full-term controls.
Women with a history of induced abortion were at a higher risk (odds ratio, 1.5) of very preterm delivery than those without such a history. Furthermore, the risk of deliveries at less than 28 weeks was even higher in this group (odds ratio, 1.7).
No association was found between induced abortion and very preterm delivery due to hypertension. However, a history of induced abortion was associated with an increased risk of premature rupture of the membranes, antepartum hemorrhage not associated with hypertension and idiopathic spontaneous preterm labor.
Thus the investigators conclude that induced abortion "increases the risk of preterm births, particularly extremely preterm deliveries."
The findings suggest the need for further research "in particular to assess the differences in the level of risk according to the technique used for abortion," Dr. Moreau told Reuters Health.
"As medical abortion is supposed to reduce mechanical injuries," she said, "it would be important to know if it also reduces the risk of subsequent preterm delivery, compared with surgical abortion."
Br J Obstet Gynaecol 2005;112:430-437.
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Leanne Wynne Midwife in charge of "Women's Business" Mildura Aboriginal Health Service Mob 0418 371862
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