A randomized controlled trial evaluating same-day mifepristone and misoprostol compared to misoprostol alone for cervical preparation prior to second-trimester surgical abortion.

Objective: We evaluated initial cervical dilation with the addition of oral mifepristone to vaginal misoprostol as cervical preparation for same-daysecond-trimester dilation and evacuation (D&E).

Study Design: Women desiring abortion between gestational ages 14weeks 0days and 19weeks 6days were randomized to 200-mg mifepristone or identical placebo immediately followed by 400-mcg misoprostol vaginally 4-6h prior to D&E. Primary outcome was cervical dilation assessed by largest Hegar dilator passed without resistance.

Use of cell-free DNA in the investigation of intrauterine fetal demise and miscarriage.

Objective: To estimate whether cell-free DNA is present in nonviable pregnancies and thus can be used in diagnostic evaluation in this setting.

Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of 50 participants at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, between June 2013 and January 2014. Included were women with pregnancies complicated by missed abortion or fetal demise.