Antibiotics at the time of induced abortion: the case for universal prophylaxis based on a meta-analysis.

Abstract

Our meta-analysis revealed a substantial protective effect of antibiotics in all subgroups of women undergoing therapeutic abortion, even women in low-risk groups. No more placebo-controlled trials should be performed, because women assigned to placebo are exposed to preventable risk. Routine use of periabortal antibiotics in the United States may prevent up to half of all cases of postabortal infections.