Pregnancy termination, consequences, and influencing factors: A study on perceptions of women of childbearing age

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy termination is a controversial topic worldwide. Regardless of morality, unsafe termination of pregnancy contributes to a significant proportion of maternal mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions of women aged 15–44 years about the factors that influence pregnancy termination and its consequences. Materials and Methods: This study used a descriptive survey design, focusing on women aged 15–44 years during a-3-month period from July to September, 2023. A total of 200 participants were selected through Simple Random Sampling Techniques. Participants completed a questionnaire comprising 16 items, rated on a 4-point scale from Strongly Agreed to Strongly Disagreed. Analysis of the questionnaire involved calculating the average weighted mean, with acceptance set at a mean value of 2.50 or higher and rejection for any mean value below 2.50. Results: The study revealed that most respondents recognized the consequences of pregnancy termination, with an average weighted mean of 3.4. Moreover, there was a correlation between discontinuing or avoiding childbearing and pregnancy termination (average weighted mean 3.4). Being a single mother also contributed (average weighted mean 3.6), and the level of education attained was associated with pregnancy termination (average weighted mean 3.2) among women of childbearing age. Conclusion: Respondents acknowledged that pregnancy termination has consequences and influencing factors, which underscore the importance of awareness and education, indicating potential areas for targeted interventions to address perceptions and factors influencing pregnancy termination in this demographic.