Ultrasound

Highlighting one notable research article from each Research Roundup in 2023.

A systemic review of “no-test” medication abortion, using an allis clamp during IUD placement, a trial of gabapentin for pain management during second-trimester abortions, and at-home urine pregnancy testing for follow-up of immediate management of an undesired pregnancy of unknown location.

Trends in bHCG levels after medication abortion, a novel implant removal device, trends in IUD self-removal during the COVID-19 pandemic, and support for the patient-centeredness of telehealth birth control and abortion care.

Ketamine versus fentanyl for pain management during abortion procedures, three studies supporting telehealth, evidence that people can correctly and consistently use progestin-only pills, and more.

Provision of medication abortion via telehealth, updated CDC treatment guidelines for sexually-transmitted infections, barriers to IUD and implant access for adolescent and young adult patients, and more.

Comparable effectiveness of Levonorgestrel and copper IUDs as emergency contraception, use of the Natural Cycles app for fertility awareness contraceptive method, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation as highly effective pain management in medication abortion care, and more.

An analysis of the use of verbal anesthesia vs. oral tramadol for pain management in IUD placement, potential effectiveness of DMPA as a self-bridging emergency contraceptive, the importance of access to PrEP among people at risk of HIV infection through receptive vaginal intercourse, and more.

The benefit of ultrasound guidance in IUD placement for patients with retroverted uteri, a demonstrated need for trauma-informed care in sexually-transmitted disease clinics, demand among abortion patients for more autonomous care options, and more.