Abortion remains one of the most contested issues in reproductive health, especially in many African societies where cultural, religious, and political factors heavily influence policy decisions. Yet, since abortion is a basic component of women's autonomy and health, it is imperative to address it from the perspectives of public health and human rights.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that between 2010 and 2014, 45% of all induced abortions were unsafe worldwide. Of all unsafe abortions, one-third were carried out in the least safe circumstances—that is, by inexperienced individuals utilizing risky and invasive techniques.Women are forced to resort to risky, unregulated procedures when they lack access to safe abortion services, which frequently results in long-term health problems or even death. It is imperative to address this problem in order to lower maternal morbidity and mortality.Vulnerable groups are disproportionately impacted by unsafe abortions: poor women, young people, and residents of remote areas with little access to healthcare. Depriving these women of safe options prolongs cycles of poverty, stigma, and unfavorable health outcomes. These women are frequently forced to make difficult decisions in desperate situations.
It is therefore important to stress that legalizing abortion does not increase its prevalence; rather, it merely makes it safer, despite the arguments made by some against the moral implications of the procedure. When women seek safe and regulated procedures without fear of legal repercussions or social rejection, the number of unsafe abortions decreases significantly, as demonstrated by countries that have legalized abortion.Women are empowered to make decisions about their bodies and futures in places where abortion is accessible and legal, especially in situations where there has been rape, incest, or where the mother's health is at risk due to the pregnancy. Moreover, legalizing abortion helps reduce the societal costs associated with treating complications from unsafe abortions, thus strengthening healthcare systems.
When discussing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), abortion should not be seen as a stand-alone problem. It is important to ensure comprehensive sexuality education, access to contraception, and supportive healthcare systems. Women are better able to make decisions about their reproductive health when they have access to information.
The stigma associated with safe abortion practices poses a serious obstacle. Many women who seek abortions encounter stigma and judgment, which prevents them from getting the care they require. Education and open dialogues are essential in destigmatizing abortion and fostering an environment of support.
Public awareness campaigns, particularly those targeting young people and marginalized communities, can help shift the narrative around abortion. It is also essential to include religious and cultural leaders in these conversations because they frequently have a big impact on how society views issues related to reproductive health.Governments, medical professionals, and members of the public society must collaborate to establish settings that uphold women's rights to safe and authorized abortion services. This entails promoting laws and policies that eliminate obstacles to care, like those pertaining to financial constraints, shortages of providers, and restrictive laws.
This story was written and produced as part of 'Advancing Reproductive Justice: Inclusive Narratives, Voices, and Agency for Just and Fair Society' project supported by KELIN through subgranting.