Objective: To compare the effectiveness of misoprostol only, Foley’s catheter only, and combined misoprostol plus Foley’s catheter for second-trimester pregnancy terminations.
Methods: This retrospective study comprised 146 patients who underwent second-trimester pregnancy termination. Patients were divided into three groups: group 1 (n=62), misoprostol alone; group 2 (n=35), Foley catheter alone; and group 3 (n=49), combined group (Misoprostol plus Foley’s catheter). The primary outcome in our study was determined by comparing the induction-abortion interval between methods. Secondary outcomes were termination in the first 24 h, complications including surgical removal of the placenta, and uterine rupture.
Results: According to the termination methods, the total termination time of the cases, the duration of hospital stays, and the termination rates in the first 24 h did not show statistically significant differences according to the procedures performed (p>0.05). The doses of misoprostol in nullipara and multiparous cases were statistically significantly higher in those who received misoprostol alone than those who received Foley + Misoprostol (respectively p=0.029; p=0.002). It was found that misoprostol dose was statistically significantly lower in those with a history of cesarean delivery (p=0.004).
Conclusion: Although the methods used in second trimester pregnancy terminations are not superior to each other in terms of efficiency, the combined method may be preferred in reducing the side effects associated with misoprostol, including a severe condition such as uterine rupture, in those with a history of cesarean section.