Fear of procedure and pain in individuals considering abortion: A qualitative study

Abstract

ObjectivesTo explore concerns about procedural abortion and abortion-related pain in a cohort searching for abortion online. MethodsThe Google Ads Abortion Access Study was a national longitudinal cohort study that recruited people searching for abortion online. Participants completed a baseline demographic survey and a follow-up survey four weeks later evaluating barriers and facilitators to abortion. This qualitative study utilized thematic analysis to produce a descriptive narrative based on overarching themes about procedural abortion and abortion-related pain. ResultsThere were 57 separate mentions from 45 participants regarding procedural abortion or abortion-related pain. We identified two main themes: 1) concerns about the procedure (with subthemes, fear of procedural abortion, comparison to medication abortion, lack of sedation) and 2) abortion-related pain (with subthemes fear of abortion-related pain, experiences of pain, fear of complications and cost-barriers to pain control). ConclusionsThis study highlights the need for improved anticipatory guidance and accessible resources to assuage potential fears and misconceptions regarding abortion. Practice impliactionsAbortion resources, particularly online, should provide accurate and unbiased information about abortion methods and pain to help patients feel more prepared. Providers should be aware of potential concerns surrounding procedural abortion and pain when counseling patients presenting for care.