Despite the legalization of abortion in Colombia in 2022, a recent study highlights significant concerns regarding the accessibility of safe and effective abortion care. The research delves into the practices of online vendors selling abortion pills, revealing critical gaps in the information and guidance provided to individuals seeking medication abortion online.
A study conducted between July and September 2023 employed mystery clients to engage with 65 unique online sellers of abortion pills across various platforms like websites and social media. These interactions, designed to mimic real-life purchase scenarios for both first and second-trimester pregnancies, aimed to assess the quality of information and medication offered.
The findings indicate that while almost all sellers inquired about gestational age using the last menstrual period, the information provided regarding potential side effects and complications was often lacking. Bleeding and cramping were the most frequently mentioned physical effects, but less than 17% of sellers discussed complications requiring medical attention. Notably, pain was more often mentioned to clients posing as second-trimester seekers compared to first-trimester ones (40.5% vs 22.0%).
Concerning medication, almost 90% of purchases were successfully received, with all containing genuine manufacturer-branded misoprostol, mostly in undamaged blister packs. Dosage instructions, however, presented a mixed picture. While a majority (82.6%) of first-trimester clients received initial misoprostol dosage instructions aligned with Colombian health guidelines, alarmingly, all second-trimester clients were advised to take dosages exceeding recommendations. Furthermore, sellers often provided contradictory and unnecessary instructions on pill administration, despite mostly giving correct information on administration routes.
This study underscores that even with legal access to abortion services, online sellers of abortion pills continue to operate in Colombia. While access to misoprostol through these channels is evident, the study raises serious concerns about the adequacy of information provided, particularly regarding potential complications and accurate dosing for later-term abortions. The researchers conclude that there is a pressing need to improve access to accurate medication abortion information tailored to the Colombian context. This is crucial to empower individuals to navigate the evolving landscape of abortion care and ensure safer practices, especially when considering purchasing Abortion Pills Online.
