THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF INDUCED ABORTION AMONG THE WOMEN OF WOLAITA SODO TOWN, SOUTH ETHIOPIA REGIONAL STATE

Abstract

The social and psychological experiences of women after induced abortion are challenging. However, there is a lack of information about the experience of women who encountered induced abortion in southern Ethiopia, specifically in Wolaita Sodo town. This study was conducted with the objective of investigating the lived experiences of women who engaged in induced abortion among the women of Wolaita Sodo town. To this end, a qualitative study was employed. Women with the experience of induced abortion were included in the study until information saturation was reached. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants. Data were collected through interviews using focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs), in-depth interviews, observation, and case studies. Regarding data analysis, the study followed the steps of social phenomenology. The findings of the study show the interplay of religious beliefs, societal values, community perceptions, and attitudes towards abortion practice, revealing a spectrum of responses influenced by cultural and generational divides. Many of the women undergo induced abortion without being emotionally prepared, driven by the fear of societal stigma and the pressure to meet societal expectations. They often do this in secrecy, hurriedly, in constrained environments, and, worst of all, under unprofessional guidance. The women prefer death over being mocked by society. The societal moral rule of not killing the baby is effectively taking a grown woman's life, exacerbating risks, some of which are life-threatening and others irreversible. Additionally, the blame and expectations fall solely on the women, making them bear the guilt. Health workers, women of childbearing age, and young unmarried women need to work together to discuss how to control unplanned pregnancies, avoid judgment, and listen to one another. Guidance and counseling services in hospitals are recommended.