Perceptions of policymakers in Nigeria toward unsafe abortion and maternal mortality.

• DOI: 10.1363/ifpp.35.194.09
• Publication Date: 2011-01-27T15:18:02Z
• Authors: Friday Okonofua; Afolabi Hammed; Emily Nzeribe; Buba Saidu; Tajudeen Abass; Gabriel Adeboye; Temi Adegun; Chike F. Okolocha
• Keywords: Unsafe abortion; Abortion law

In Nigeria, abortion is permitted only to save the life of a woman. Unsafe common and major cause maternal mortality, yet policymakers have done little address problem.In-depth interviews were conducted in 2008 with 49 Nigerian politicians officials assess their awareness unsafe its role determine perceptions policies actions needed these problems.Participants had poor knowledge Nigeria's law number abortions abortion-related deaths, though many knew women who died or nearly from abortion. Policymakers guided by moral religious considerations rather than evidence-based approaches. About one-third informants felt that should not be legal under any circumstances, one-fifth supported liberalization on medical grounds similar proportion believed cases rape incest. Strategies recommended respondents reduce mortality included facilitating access contraceptives, providing sexuality education, improving health care system, empowering free pregnancy care.Intense public education advocacy targeting increase political will for reducing deaths Nigeria. Presenting statistics together compelling personal stories likely resonate contribute an informed debate reform.