Therapeutic Abortions—A Review of 567 Cases

Five hundred sixty-seven therapeutic abortions have been reviewed at the University Hospital of San Diego County. The primary source of referral was through local counseling agencies within the area. Most of the patients were unmarried primigravidas between the ages of 15 and 24. Increases in complications, in length of stay in hospital and in cost were directly related to delay in obtaining an abortion. The maximum psychological impact was felt before admission and at the time of discharge. It is felt that programs must be devised which are moral, ethical and efficacious and which serve not only to help the patient obtain an abortion within the first trimester but also to assist, direct and educate that stressed patient in need.