Misoprostol Versus Dilapan-S for Cervical Preparation

Cervical Preparation Before Same-day Second Trimester Abortion With Buccal Misoprostol Versus Dilapan-S: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to compare the dilatory effect of 400 mcg of buccally administered misoprostol to one Dilapan-S rod placed 3-4 hours before abortion by dilation and evacuation in women who are 12 weeks 0 days to 15 weeks 0 days gestation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• medically eligible for dilation and evacuation at Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts
• gestational age 12 weeks 0 days to 15 weeks 0 days as evaluated by ultrasound
• proficient in English or Spanish
• agreeing to study procedures, including randomization and surveys regarding demographics, medical and gynecological history, and assessments of pain and satisfaction

Exclusion Criteria:

• less than 18 years old
• cervical or uterine anomaly that the research physician deems may affect the difficulty of dilation or the abortion procedure
• inflammatory bowel disease
• contraindication to misoprostol use
• known intolerance or allergy to misoprostol or Dilapan-S
• inability to give informed consent