Abstract:

The aim of the study was to investigate the factors contributing to unsafe abortion practices among women of reproductive age. Being a case study, this study used a mixed methodology approach which embraces the best of both qualitative and quantitative approaches, as this approach provides the researcher with both “breadth and depth in” obtaining a holistic understanding of social phenomena. The target population of this study comprised adolescent girls, that is, girls and women aged between 18 years and 25 years who are either in school or have dropped out after falling pregnant. This study used both qualitative and quantitative methods and relied on both quantitative and qualitative techniques of data analysis. The results indicate that reforming laws that regulate a highly stigmatized action takes time and may follow years of using multidisciplinary strategies to highlight the public health consequences and costs of unsafe abortion. Zambia is similar to other countries in the region with restrictive abortion laws in that many countries spell out the grounds for when abortion is not punishable in national penal codes. The recommendations are that the government should lift the most egregious barriers to legal services, such as requirements that multiple physicians authorize abortions and that only physicians can provide them. All healthcare professionals who provide abortion must be trained in WHO-recommended techniques, and the use of dilation and curettage must be discontinued. This invasive method should be completely replaced by either medication abortion or vacuum aspiration.

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