Reducing Maternal Mortality from Unsafe Abortion among Adolescents in Africa

Initiation of sexual behaviour is a normal part of human development and it often occurs during adolescence. This is common and universal to all societies and cultures around the world with profound implications for sexual and reproductive health. Adolescence is the period when much of the changes that are associated with becoming an adult take place. These are changes which societies expect and welcome. Unsafe abortion is a major cause of maternal mortality among adolescents in Africa. The need for a public health response to unsafe abortion in Africa is compelling. It is important to focus on primary prevention including the provision of appropriate sexuality education and information as well as supportive services to allow adolescents to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Secondary prevention efforts include prompt diagnosis and treatment of complications by ensuring that services are made more responsive to the needs of adolescents, and by improving access to and quality of care for them. Post-abortion care in adolescents must include contraception as well as several elements of life planning. (Afr J Reprod Health 2004; 8[1]:57-62