Safe abortion services for adolescents in Ghana

Abstract

Ghana has one of the most liberal abortion laws in sub-Saharan Africa. The Ghanaian abortion law of 1985 permits abortion in cases of rape, incest or the defilement of a female idiot if the life or health of the woman is in danger; or if there is risk of fetal abnormality. A woman is also legally allowed to obtain an abortion for mental reasons [1]. However, a diagnosis from a psychiatrist is not a mandatory requirement. The challenges in accessing safe abortion services by adolescents are different from those faced by adults. The law, as well as the Ghana Health Service Reproductive Health Strategy, does not provide specific guidance regarding access to safe abortion care for adolescents. Five main areas need special attention as far as improving adolescent access to safe abortion services in Ghana is concerned: (1) Rendering safe abortion fees uniform and affordable in facilities that offer safe abortion care; (2) Establishment of explicit context specific guidelines to fight against stigma among abortion seekers and providers; (3) Training of health care providers in respectful and non-judgmental counseling policies when caring for pregnant adolescents; (4) Expanding the availability and affordability of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) in health care facilities; (5) Inclusion of clear policies on how to deal with conscientious objection in health facilities.