Confronting the challenge of unsafe second-trimester abortion

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Global Health

Background:

• Unsafe abortion contributes to 13% of global maternal deaths annually.
• The majority of these deaths occur in low-resource countries.
• Second-trimester abortions carry higher risks and are responsible for most severe complications and fatalities in high-prevalence unsafe abortion regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical need for improved access to safe second-trimester abortion services globally.
• To identify barriers hindering the provision of second-trimester abortion care, particularly in low-income regions.

Main Methods:

• This paper reviews existing literature and data on abortion safety, maternal mortality, and access to care.
• It analyzes factors contributing to unmet needs for second-trimester abortion services.

Main Results:

• Second-trimester abortion, though less common, accounts for a disproportionately high rate of severe complications and mortality.
• Barriers such as inadequate healthcare provider training and abortion stigma impede access to necessary services.

Conclusions:

• Prioritizing safe second-trimester abortion access in low-income regions is essential for reducing global maternal mortality.
• Addressing provider training and stigma is vital to meet the unmet need for these services.