Factors Associated with Choice of Post-Abortion Contraceptive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Ndola Prata, University of California, Berkeley
Caitlin Gerdts, University of California, Berkeley
Martine Holston, Venture Strategies
Yilma Melkamu, Addis Ababa University

Background: Ethiopia, has one of the highest rates of maternal mortality in the world, and 34% of women report unmet need for family planning. Methods: Service statistics of 1,200 women seeking abortion-related services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, were analyzed. Socio-demographic characteristics, reproductive history, type of service provided and contraceptive history data were assessed in this analysis. We examined last contraceptive method used and contraceptive chosen post-abortion. Results: Overall most of the 1,200 women seeking abortion-related care young, well-educated, and single. Mean age was 25; 79% of women were aged 20-29. Only 57% used a contraceptive method prior to presenting for abortion-related services, the majority of whom were pill-users. A contraceptive method was provided to 86% of women, most commonly pills, injectables, and condoms. Conclusions: Lack of access to modern contraceptives in populations that desire smaller families can lead to repeat abortions.