Addressing complications of unsafe abortion in sub-Saharan Africa : programme and policy actions

Adolescents frequently form the largest group of females treated for complications of unsafe abortion (especially in urban areas). This booklet provides highlights of a study that has documented the problem through extensive review of published and unpublished literature as well as primary data collection in three representative countries: Malawi, Uganda, and Zambia. The booklet summarizes findings concerning the magnitude of unsafe abortion, clinical and cost-related issues, contraceptive use and the incidence of unsafe abortion, men and unsafe abortion, and the legal environment. It then suggests actions to help resolve the problem, including efforts to decentralize emergency care, promote community awareness of the problems associated with unsafe abortions, and emphasize women"s reproductive health rights in treatment and management of unsafe abortion. Almost always, unsafe abortion is a result of unwanted pregnancy, reflecting lack of information about family planning services and limited access to those services. Providing family planning information and contraceptives to women of reproductive age will help them to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Governments can substantially influence women"s health by undertaking the actions outlined in this booklet, while as partners in the provision of health services, donor agencies and NGOs can help by providing support in areas such as research, training, and public awareness programs. (Author abstract, modified)