Relationship of obesity to outcome of medical abortion.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome of medical abortion for obese women and nonobese women.

Study Design: We conducted a chart review of women having medical abortions in 2005-2007. Outcomes were classified as surgical intervention, need for additional visits, and complete abortion. The rate of surgical intervention was compared for women with BMI less than 30 to women with BMI greater than 30.

Results: Of the 1202 eligible procedures using mifepristone and misoprostol, there were 861 women with BMI less than 30 and 341 women with BMI greater than 30. Women with BMI less than 30, and women with BMI greater than 30 had identical rates of surgical intervention, 5% and 6%, respectively (P = .72).

Conclusion: In light of the additional risks of surgical abortion to obese women, medical abortion should be considered for these women.