Table 2.

Outcome of the questionnaire (n = 127)

Characteristicn (%)
Miscarriage assistance request, instances
0–270 (55.1)
3–545 (35.4)
6–108 (6.3)
>101 (0.8)
Not sure3 (2.4)
Action method in case of a miscarriage
Self-guidance and referral48 (37.8)
Preference to guide and treat self31 (24.4)
Direct referral to gynaecologist48 (37.8)
Number of unwanted pregnancies annually
0–259 (46.5)
3–554 (42.5)
6–1013 (10.2)
>100 (0)
Not sure1 (0.8)
Action method in case of an unwanted pregnancya
Referral to abortion clinic, if no doubts70 (55.1)
Referral to abortion clinic, after discussion45 (35.4)
Against TOP, but will refer6 (4.7)
Against TOP, will not refer5 (3.9)
Feeling qualified to provide medical TOP
Yes, for a miscarriage6 (4.7)
Yes, for medical TOP4 (3.1)
Yes, for both miscarriage and medical TOP20 (15.7)
No, for neither miscarriage nor medical TOP97 (76.4)
Willing to provide medical TOP after trainingb
For miscarriage only33 (26.0)
For miscarriage and medical TOP74 (58.3)
Access to ultrasound
Own practice9 (7.1)
Midwifery practice32 (25.2)
Other primary care facility40 (31.5)
Referral to gynaecologist or abortion clinic46 (36.2)
Need for additional training
Yes, for miscarriages20 (15.7)
Yes, for medical TOP2 (1.6)
Yes, both for miscarriages and medical TOP73 (57.5)
No, neither for miscarriages nor medical TOP32 (25.2)
Barriers to provide medical TOPc
No barriers12 (9.4)
Extra administrative work12 (9.4)
Lack of experience75 (59.1)
Lack of time35 (27.6)
Lack of knowledge55 (43.3)
No access to ultrasound44 (34.6)
Objections from colleagues10 (7.9)
Lack of funding16 (12.6)
Personal conviction35 (27.6)
Public opinion (stigma)2 (1.6)
Other24 (18.9)
  • a Missing information for 1 GP (0.8%).

  • b Missing information for 20 GPs (15.7%).

  • c Participants were free to select more than one barrier. TOP = termination of pregnancy.