Title:
Factors that Influence Women’s Access to and Utilization of Safe Abortion Services in Ghana
Authors:
Kampim, Aaron
Year:
2015
PAGE:
xi, 65
Language:
En
Subject:
Maternal Health – Lessons Learned
Keywords:
Abortion, Abortion Law, Abortion Policy, Unsafe Abortion, Safe Abortion Services, Contextual of Abortion, Ghana
Abstract:
Background: Unsafe abortion is the second leading cause of maternal deaths in Ghana. The country has an induced abortion rate of 15 per 1000 women (15 – 44 years), with 40% carried out by unqualified providers; such abortions are regarded unsafe. Objective of study: To explore factors that influence women’s access to and utilization of safe abortion services in Ghana and to identify evidence based interventions in order to develop recommendations to improve use of safe abortion services in Ghana. Methodology: The study carried out literature review using peer reviewed articles, other published and unpublished literature. The study adapted, modified and used the framework for evaluating abortion programs by Janie Benson. Findings: Unsafe abortion is common among women in Ghana especially for young women, rural women, and women of low economic status. This is influenced by contextual factors and other factors like laws and policies, service delivery and women’s abortion decisions and choices. Conclusion: Ghana’s abortion law does not reflect the needs of women. Policies, protocols and guidelines for Comprehensive Abortion Care exist but implementation and availability of services is limited. The socio-cultural context dominantly stigmatizes and resists abortion; this hinders policy implementation and access to and utilization of safe abortion services. Recommendations: Review the law to reflect the needs of women, expand access to Comprehensive Abortion Care services, sensitize and educate women and communities on the law, safe abortion and the human cost unsafe abortion.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Department:
Health Unit
Country:
Ghana
Region:
Western Africa
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (MPH/ICHD)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2015 Kampim
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
nwP1cNoAkT_20161025121256176.pdf