Celebrating increased availability of mifepristone around the world

We have recently witnessed some policy changes that have led to the expanded registration of mifepristone, a crucial medication used for medical abortion, in various countries. This expansion is a positive step towards enhancing access to safe abortion services for women worldwide.  

This broader availability of this medication ensures that more and more women will have access to safe and effective methods of pregnancy termination, thereby reducing the incidence of unsafe abortions and associated complications. 

We celebrate Japan's registration of mifepristone earlier this year, recognising it as a significant step towards improving the quality and acceptability of safe abortion services in the country. We call on the government and the society of obstetricians and gynecologists in Japan to ensure the availability of mifepristone to all women who may benefit from it, thereby promoting reproductive autonomy and safeguarding women's health. 

We also celebrate the inclusion of mifepristone in Ecuador's pharmaceutical registry, acknowledging the importance of expanding access to safe abortion methods. While abortion remains restricted in Ecuador, exceptions exist, and mifepristone should be made available where legally permissible. This inclusion represents progress towards facilitating access to safe and effective options for pregnancy termination, thereby reducing maternal mortality and morbidity. 

Lastly, we acknowledge the retraction of misleading articles on mifepristone by the US Supreme Court recognising the importance of accurate and evidence-based information in shaping public perceptions and policies related to safe abortion. Misinformation can hinder access to essential healthcare services and perpetuate the stigma surrounding abortion. The retraction of these articles is a positive step towards promoting informed decision-making and ensuring that women receive accurate information about their reproductive healthcare options. 

The registration and availability of mifepristone underscore the recognition of safe abortion as an essential health service. Access to safe abortion services is critical for safeguarding women's health and rights, reducing maternal mortality and promoting reproductive autonomy. These recent changes demonstrate a commitment to advancing women's healthcare and upholding their fundamental right to comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including safe abortion. 

As advocates for women's health and reproductive rights, the FIGO Committee on Safe Abortion and the Division of Sexual Reproductive Health and Wellbeing applaud these developments and remain committed to advancing access to safe abortion services globally. We urge continued efforts to address barriers to access and promote policies that prioritise women's reproductive autonomy and healthcare needs. 

—Dr Ivonne Diaz, Division Director  of the FIGO Sexual and Reproductive Health and Wellbeing and Dr Laura Gil, Chair of the FIGO Committee on Safe Abortion