A comprehensive report by the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) has uncovered alarming statistics on induced abortions in Sierra Leone. The report estimates that approximately 91,494 induced abortions were carried out in 2021, translating to an abortion rate of 44.2 per 1,000 women of reproductive age (15-49 years). This data underscores the challenges many women face in accessing safe reproductive healthcare in the country.
The APHRC report, titled Abortion Incidence and Severity of Complications in Sierra Leone, not only highlights the high number of abortions but also draws attention to the prevalence of complications arising from these procedures. The report found that 13.3 out of every 1,000 women in this age group sought post-abortion care (PAC) treatment, signaling the risks associated with unsafe or improperly managed abortions.
The findings have raised concerns about the quality and availability of reproductive health services in Sierra Leone. With many women relying on unsafe methods to terminate pregnancies, the need for better access to family planning, comprehensive sexuality education, and safe abortion services is more pressing than ever. The report also calls for strengthening the healthcare system’s ability to provide post-abortion care, ensuring that women suffering from complications can receive timely and appropriate treatment.
These statistics point to a larger conversation about women’s health rights in Sierra Leone, with advocates pushing for reforms that will address the barriers to accessing safe reproductive services. The APHRC report serves as a crucial source of evidence for policymakers and stakeholders working towards reducing maternal mortality and improving women’s health outcomes.
For more detailed information, you can access the full APHRC report here.
