Abstract

In Ethiopia, abortion is illegal except in cases where the mother’s and fetal life is in danger. As such, little is known about safe abortion. This study aimed to assess proportion of safe abortion and associated factors among women who seek abortion care services in Family Health Guidance and Marie Stopes International Clinics, Dessie town, North East Ethiopia. Cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 mothers who sought abortion care services from March to May 2017.  The samples were taken consecutively in the study period by considering random client flow. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was done. From 422 patients who got abortion care services in the study period, 265 (62.8%) practiced safe abortion. Severe health problems during pregnancy [AOR 12, 95% CI, (3.080, 48.364)], surgical method of abortion [AOR 6, 95% CI, (2.379, 14.374)] and positive attitude of the study group to safe abortion [AOR 1.9, 95% CI, (1.084, 3.182)] were potential predictors of safe abortion.  It was found that while the majority of participants were coming to access safe abortion services, there are still a large number of women engaging in unsafe methods for abortion. Thus, there is need for strong pregnancy follow up and behavioral change programs towards safe abortion..

Key words: Safe abortion, Marie Stopes International Clinic, family guidance clinic, abortion care services.

Abbreviation

WHO, World Health Organization; WU, Wollo University; CSA, Central Statistical Agency of Ethiopia; DHS, demographic health survey; FHG, family health guidance, FMOH, Federal Ministry of Health; FP, family planning; GA, gestational age; MMR, maternal mortality ratio.