Drug-induced abortion: how is it during the health crisis?

Usually, drug induced abortion is done until the end of 5^e week of pregnancy, i.e. not more than 7 weeks after the start of the last menstrual period. In accordance with the favorable opinion of the HAS (High Health Authority) issued on 10 April 2020, abortions in these circumstances can be carried out until the end of the 7^e week of pregnancy, i.e. up to 9 weeks after the date of the last menstrual period (this corresponds to the usual period for abortion in a health care facility).

In the current context, for women who wish to use this practice, a teleconsultation with the doctor or midwife can ensure:

• the consultation of information and the prescription of drugs necessary for the realization of abortion;
• the first use of the medicinal products (subject to the free and informed consent of the woman and the agreement of the health-care professional in the light of her state of health);
• follow-up monitoring, within 14 to 21 days.

Provision has also been made for the dispensing of prescribed medicines:

• the prescription shall mention the name of the pharmacy designated by the person concerned;
• the doctor or midwife forwards a copy of the prescription to that pharmacy (using secure digital tools);
• the pharmacy shall supply the medicinal products directly to the woman concerned free of charge and anonymously, in a package suitable for individual use;
• the pharmacist prints the pharmacy stamp, the date of dispensing, the registration numbers, and the reference on the prescription

  exceptional delivery

  ;
• he shall inform the prescriber that the supply has been effected.

Mifepristone and misoprostol drugs may be prescribed.