Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2001
Nov;75(2):137-47.
Unsafe abortion in adolescents.
Olukoya AA, Kaya A, Ferguson BJ, AbouZahr C.
Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development, World
Health Organization, CH-1211 27, Geneva, Switzerland.
Every year, an estimated 2.0-4.4 million adolescents resort to
abortion. In comparison with adults, adolescents are more likely
to delay the abortion, resort to unskilled persons to perform
it, use dangerous methods and present late when complications
arise. Adolescents are also more likely to experience
complications. conse quently, adolescents seeking abortion or
presenting with complications of abortion should be considered
as a medical emergency. Issues requiring special attention in
the management of abortion complications in adolescents are
identified. Approaches to adolescent abortion should involve all
levels of the health care system, as well as the community, and
should include not only management of the conse quences of unsafe
abortion, but also post-abortion contraception and counseling.
Prevention of unwanted pregnancy by providing information on
sexuality, ensuring that reproductive health services are
adolescent-friendly, creating a supportive environment, building
young people's social and decision-making skills, and offering
counseling in times of crisis are highlighted.
