This study highlights the crucial role of understanding women’s experiences with medical abortion (MA) in hopes of improving abortion care in Ghana and Nigeria. Through digital surveys conducted via social media, DKT International partnered with Sohail Agha and the Behavioral Insights Lab (BiL) to gather data on MA awareness, purchase, and use.
Key findings show that awareness of MA is highest amongst women in urban areas and amongst the poorest women, highlighting MA’s potential as a “pro-poor” intervention. The study also emphasizes the significant role of private sector outlets like community pharmacies in Ghana and PPMVs in Nigeria for providing access to MA, especially for economically disadvantaged women.
This research sheds light on critical issues, including potential socio-economic and regional disparities in access and pricing, the importance of MA accessibility for young and poor women, and the need for further research on pricing practices and quality variations.
As we continue to advocate for accessible, affordable, and quality abortion care, this study provides a strong foundation for policymakers and healthcare providers to ensure that the needs of women — especially the most vulnerable — are met.
SOURCE: DKT International website, 5 November 2024