BACKGROUND: The objectives of this study were to assess perceptions of women viewing the products of conception after abortion and to assess the feasibility of offering this choice. STUDY DESIGN: Women presenting for abortion at two abortion clinics were given a questionnaire asking if they wished to view the products of conception. A second questionnaire was given to women who had viewed products of conception about their perceptions. Clinic staff members were interviewed after completion of the study. RESULTS: The study revealed that 152/508 (28.7%) of women having abortions chose to view the products of conception and 98/122 (83.1%) found that viewing did not make it harder emotionally. Older women and those who had children were less likely to want to view products of conception (p=.037) and more likely to find it harder if they did (p=.05). All 11 clinic staff members interviewed were positive about offering this service. CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to offer women having abortions the choice to view the products of conception and for most, viewing does not make it emotionally harder for them.
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