Profile of women with abortion complications in Ghana

A cross-sectional study of 150 women was performed at the gynaecology department of the Korle-BuTeaching Hospital to describe the characteristics of patients with complications of induced or spontaneous abortions, and to find out the reasons behind induced abortions. In all, 31% of the study sample presented with complications of induced abortions. This group was younger, of lower parity, more educated, with lower economic potential, in less stable relationships and with a higher knowledge of modern contraceptive methods than the group with spontaneous abortions. The chief reason for procuring an induced abortion was the presence of relationship problems with the subject's partner. We conclude that measures to prevent induced abortions and their subsequent problems will yield major results if directed at women in their early 20s with at least primary education, no children, low economic potential, not in a stable relationship and who have had a previous induced abortion.