Role of ultrasound scanning in community contraceptive and reproductive health clinics

Abstract

Background The role of ultrasound scanning (USS) in the community setting of contraception and reproductive health (CRH) has not yet been clearly established. Abacus Clinics use ultrasound scans prior to referral for abortion where gestation is uncertain and for location of an intrauterine device/intrauterine system (IUD/IUS).Objective To audit the indications for USS performed in Abacus Clinics and to determine a minimum acceptable number of annual scans for each clinician.Methods A retrospective review of case notes was performed for a period of 3 months. ResultsThe majority of women (36; 64%) had a scan to determine gestation prior to referral for abortion. In 12 (21%) women the scan was performed for location of an IUD/IUS. Two (4%) women had a scan for both indications. Only six (11%) women did not comply with the indications listed above but all were related to gestation or 115 ©FSRH