Investigating social consequences of unwanted pregnancy and unsafe abortion in Malawi: the role of stigma
Levandowski, B.A.; Kalilani-Phiri, L.; Kachale, F.; Awah, P.; Kangaude, G.; Mhango, C.
International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics the Official Organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics 118(Suppl 2): S167-S171
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 1879-3479 PMID: 22920622 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7292(12)60017-4Document Number: 269470
Malawian women in all sectors of society are suffering from social implications of unwanted pregnancy and unsafe abortion. Unwanted pregnancies occur among women who have limited access to family planning and safe abortion. A legally restrictive setting for safe abortion services leads many women to unsafe abortion, which has consequences for them and their families. In-depth interviews were conducted with 485 Malawian stakeholders belonging to different political and social structures. Interviewees identified the impact of unwanted pregnancy and unsafe abortion to be the greatest on young women. Premarital and extramarital pregnancies were highly stigmatized; stigma directly related to abortion was also found. Community-level discussions need to focus on reduction of stigma.