Women's Reproductive Decision Making and Abortion Experiences in Cape Town, South Africa: A Qualitative Study

Overview

Journal Health Care Women Int

Publisher Routledge

Specialties Gynecology & Obstetrics
Health Services
Nursing

Date 2017 Nov 8

PMID 29111909

Citations 4

Authors

Marie E Sullivan

Abigail Harrison

Jane Harries

Namhla Sicwebu

Rochelle K Rosen

Omar Galarraga

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Unintended pregnancy is a significant public health issue in South Africa. Despite free services including contraception, women face structural and institutional barriers to accessing care. This qualitative study comprised interviews with 16 women aged 18 to 40 years and receiving post-abortion services at a public clinic in Cape Town. Data analysis revealed three main themes: personal journeys in seeking abortion, contraceptive experiences, and contrasting feelings of empowerment (in reproductive decision making) and disempowerment (in the health care system). Women perceived themselves as solely responsible for their reproductive health, but found it difficult to obtain adequate information or services.

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