PREVALENCE AND PATTERN OF ABORTION AMONG FEMALE UNDERGRADUATES OF UNIVERSITY OF BENIN
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Abstract
Abortion remains a significant public health concern, especially among young women of reproductive age in developing countries where access to reproductive health
services is limited and social stigma is pervasive. Female undergraduates are particularly vulnerable due to early sexual debut, inadequate contraceptive use, and socio-cultural pressures. This study assessed the prevalence and patterns of abortion among female undergraduates at the University of Benin, Edo State. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were obtained from 550 randomly selected female undergraduates across eight faculties and eight departments using
structured questionnaires. Information collected included socio-demographic characteristics, sexual and reproductive history, contraceptive use, and abortion experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests with SPSS version 23.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 550 respondents participated, yielding a 100% response rate. The mean
age was 22.3 ± 3.5 years, with the majority aged 20–24 years. About 30% reported previous pregnancy, and all such cases ended in abortion. Most abortions were performed in hospitals (37.6%) and chemist shops (31.5%), predominantly during the first trimester (93.9%). Doctors (57.6%) and chemists (29.1%) were the main providers. Male condoms (25.6%) were the most frequently used contraceptive, mainly sourced from pharmacies. A significant association was found between contraceptive use and prevalence of abortion (p < 0.05). Cultural and religious beliefs, as well as partner involvement in decision-making, also influenced abortion and contraceptive practices. Conclusion: Abortion is prevalent among female undergraduates of the University of Benin, with most procedures occurring under medical supervision but a substantial proportion still being unsafe. Improving access to reproductive health education, contraception, and safe abortion services is essential to reduce associated risks and complications.
services is limited and social stigma is pervasive. Female undergraduates are particularly vulnerable due to early sexual debut, inadequate contraceptive use, and socio-cultural pressures. This study assessed the prevalence and patterns of abortion among female undergraduates at the University of Benin, Edo State. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were obtained from 550 randomly selected female undergraduates across eight faculties and eight departments using
structured questionnaires. Information collected included socio-demographic characteristics, sexual and reproductive history, contraceptive use, and abortion experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests with SPSS version 23.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 550 respondents participated, yielding a 100% response rate. The mean
age was 22.3 ± 3.5 years, with the majority aged 20–24 years. About 30% reported previous pregnancy, and all such cases ended in abortion. Most abortions were performed in hospitals (37.6%) and chemist shops (31.5%), predominantly during the first trimester (93.9%). Doctors (57.6%) and chemists (29.1%) were the main providers. Male condoms (25.6%) were the most frequently used contraceptive, mainly sourced from pharmacies. A significant association was found between contraceptive use and prevalence of abortion (p < 0.05). Cultural and religious beliefs, as well as partner involvement in decision-making, also influenced abortion and contraceptive practices. Conclusion: Abortion is prevalent among female undergraduates of the University of Benin, with most procedures occurring under medical supervision but a substantial proportion still being unsafe. Improving access to reproductive health education, contraception, and safe abortion services is essential to reduce associated risks and complications.
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