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Comparing Medical Abortion Outcomes and Experiences Between Young and Adult Women: Evidence From Urban Cambodia
Erin Pearson1, Paige Logan2, Elisabeth Eckersberger3
1Ipas, Research and Evaluation Unit, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Center on Gender Equity and Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California.
Introduction:
Self-managed abortions are increasingly common globally, but little is known about young women's experiences.
Methods:
Secondary analysis of data from 1847 women accessing MA in urban Cambodia in 2018-2019 and in-depth interviews with seven women aged 15-19. Descriptive statistics compared young and adult women on self-reported abortion outcomes and experiences in clinics and pharmacies, and qualitative data contextualized quantitative findings.
Results:
Young women were better represented among clinic clients (30.0%) compared to pharmacy clients (20.2%). Young women had comparable MA success rates and better MA experiences across settings, but young pharmacy clients were more likely to seek support from friends and family.
Discussion:
Young women had comparable MA outcomes and experiences as adult women in both clinics and pharmacies, but young women self-managing their abortions may require information and support beyond the pharmacist.
