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Unit 3: Uterine Evacuation Methods

Overview

This unit explains the various uterine evacuation options and why manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) and medical methods are especially useful in crisis settings; the safety, effectiveness, and possible complications of MVA and medical methods; and the importance of uterine evacuation with MVA as a backup to uterine evacuation with medications. Additionally, it reviews medical eligibility for select methods of postabortion contraception; how to provide method options counseling and contraceptive counseling, and how to obtain informed consent prior to uterine evacuation.

Objectives

By the end of this unit, participants will:

  • Describe the various uterine evacuation options and explain why MVA and mifepristone and misoprostol are especially useful in crisis settings.
  • Describe the safety, effectiveness, and possible complications of vacuum aspiration and mifepristone and misoprostol.
  • Explain the importance of uterine evacuation with vacuum aspiration as a backup to uterine evacuation with medications.
  • Discuss medical eligibility for select methods of postabortion contraception, including emergency contraception.
  • Provide uterine evacuation method options counseling and contraceptive counseling for women seeking uterine evacuation.
  • Obtain informed consent prior to uterine evacuation.

Timing & Methodology

Total: 90 minutes (1 hour, 30 minutes)

  • 25 minutes: Facilitator Presentation and Group Discussion
  • 20 minutes: Small Group Work: Case Studies
  • 25 minutes: Facilitator Presentation and Group Discussion
  • 20 minutes: Case Studies: Other Special Considerations

Preparation

  • Print, download, and gather materials
  • Arrange to ship or carry samples of mifepristone, misoprostol, and contraceptive methods with you
  • Review included case studies and ensure they are appropriate for training setting

Resources Available Online

Sexual and reproductive health services remain critical during COVID-19

IAWG members and partners are producing clinical and programmatic guidance, assessments, policy papers, and statements to ensure continued prioritization of sexual and reproductive health and rights throughout COVID-19 response in humanitarian settings.