Post-Abortion Contraception Choices of Women in Ghana: A One-Year Review

Sarah D. Rominski, University of Michigan

Background: Low rates of contraception in much of sub-Saharan Africa result in unplanned pregnancies, which in young, unmarried women often result in unsafe abortion. Increasing the use of highly effective forms of contraception has the potential to reduce the abortion-related mortality and morbidity. Methods: This cross-sectional study used information collected by the post-abortion family planning counsellor. De-identified data from one year (June 2012-May 2013) were extracted from the log book. Multivariate linear and logistic regression was performed. Results: 612 women received care for post-abortion complications June 2012 and May 2013. Young, unmarried women, and those were being treated for complications arising from an induced versus spontaneous abortion were more likely to report they would use “abstinence” as their method of contraception following their treatment. Discussion: This vulnerable group could benefit from an increased uptake of long acting reversible contraceptive methods to avoid repeated unplanned pregnancies and the potential of future unsafe abortions.