Unsafe abortion is a serious public health issue in many countries, including Nigeria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unsafe abortions cause about 30% of maternal deaths in Nigeria. Many women and girls seek unsafe procedures due to restrictive laws, lack of access to healthcare, and stigma. The dangers of abortion can lead to life-threatening complications and long-term health problems.
In this article, we will explore the 10 effects of unsafe abortions and why we need to improve reproductive healthcare access for women.
1. Severe Bleeding (Hemorrhage)
Unsafe abortion can cause excessive bleeding, which may lead to shock, organ failure, or even death. Without immediate medical care, heavy blood loss can become fatal. Many women who experience severe bleeding after an unsafe abortion struggle to find help due to fear of stigma or legal consequences.
2. Infections and Sepsis
When an abortion is performed in unsanitary conditions or by untrained individuals, bacteria can enter the reproductive system. Unsanitary abortion conditions can lead to severe infections, also known as sepsis. If untreated, sepsis can spread throughout the body and become deadly.
3. Uterine Damage and Infertility
One of the most devastating effects of unsafe abortion is permanent damage to the uterus. Some women experience scarring, uterine perforation, or damage to the cervix, making it difficult or impossible to get pregnant in the future.
4. Unsafe Methods Cause Serious Injuries
Women who cannot access safe medical abortions may resort to dangerous methods, such as:
- Ingesting toxic substances (like bleach or herbs)
- Inserting sharp objects into the womb
- Relying on unqualified individuals to perform procedures
These unsafe practices can cause organ damage, poisoning, or even death.
5. Psychological Trauma
Unsafe abortion is not only physically dangerous but also mentally damaging. Many women experience severe guilt, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after going through a traumatic procedure. The fear of stigma and legal punishment makes it even harder to seek help.
6. Higher Risk of Maternal Death
According to the Guttmacher Institute, unsafe abortions are a leading cause of maternal mortality in countries with strict abortion laws. If women had access to safe reproductive healthcare services, many deaths could be prevented.
7. Complications in Future Pregnancies
Women who survive unsafe abortions often face serious pregnancy complications later in life, including:
- Miscarriages
- Ectopic pregnancies (where the fertilized egg grows outside the womb)
- Stillbirths
These complications increase the risk of maternal and infant deaths.
8. Financial Burden on Families
Treating complications from unsafe abortion can be very expensive. Many women end up spending their life savings on emergency surgeries, hospital stays, and medications. This puts additional stress on families, especially those in low-income communities.
9. Stigma and Legal Consequences
In many societies, including Nigeria, abortion is highly stigmatized. Women who undergo unsafe abortions often suffer discrimination, isolation, and even legal punishment. Fear of being judged or arrested prevents women from seeking medical help, increasing the risk of severe health problems.
10. Lack of Access to Contraceptives and Education
One of the biggest reasons women turn to unsafe abortions is the lack of contraceptive access and reproductive health education. Many women do not receive proper information about birth control, family planning, or safe pregnancy options. Providing free or affordable contraceptives could help prevent unintended pregnancies and reduce the need for unsafe abortions.
How Can We Reduce Unsafe Abortions?
To save lives, we must take urgent action which may include:
- Improve access to contraception and family planning services
- Ensure women have access to quality reproductive healthcare
- Strengthen policies that protect women’s rights and health
- Reduce stigma and provide mental health support for affected women
- Educate women and young girls about safe pregnancy options
Unsafe abortion remains a public health crisis, but with better healthcare, education, and support, many lives can be saved.
Conclusion
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References
Here are some key sources for further reading:
