Unsafe abortion is a serious public health concern. It is a leading cause of maternal death and disability, particularly in developing countries.
Prevention
The most effective way to prevent unsafe abortion is to increase access to safe and legal abortion services. This includes:
- Legalization of abortion: Countries with restrictive abortion laws have higher rates of unsafe abortion.
- Increased availability of safe abortion services: This includes making sure that there are enough trained providers and facilities available to offer safe abortion care.
- Comprehensive sexuality education: This includes education about contraception, reproductive health, and safe abortion services.
- Increased access to contraception: This is essential for preventing unwanted pregnancies in the first place.
Management
If you experience complications from an unsafe abortion, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Complications can include:
- Heavy bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to the reproductive organs
Early treatment can help prevent serious health problems, including death.
Management of complications from unsafe abortion includes:
- Antibiotics: To treat or prevent infection
- Ergotamides: To control bleeding
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove remaining pregnancy tissue or repair damage to the reproductive organs.
It is important to remember that unsafe abortion is preventable. By increasing access to safe and legal abortion services and contraception, we can help to save women’s lives.
