Abstract:
Background: Induced abortion in Tanzania is illegal and the culture and beliefs of
the society prohibit its practice. However, it is commonly done and almost always in
unsafe environment and sometimes by none professionals. Annually about 405,000
induced abortions are conducted in Tanzania that contribute to 17-21% of national
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) of 556 deaths per 100,000 live births annually.
Objectives: This study aimed at exploring the perception of induced abortion and its
ethical implication in Mtwara Region.
Methodology: The exploratory study design guided the research study that was
conducted in Mtwara urban District. Thirteen (13) in-depth interviews with women
of reproductive age, who were conveniently recruited were conducted. NVivo 10
computer software guided the analysis of the data.
Findings: The study reports women’s perceptions regarding socio-economic
benefits, psychological experiences and ethical implications of induced abortion.
Women perceived induced abortion to have some social economic benefits. Shame,
anxiety, guilt feelings and depression were some of the psychological experiences of
women following induced abortion. Further, women thought that abortion violates
religious beliefs, customs and taboos and national abortion policy.
Conclusion: Women of reproductive age perceived induced abortion to have socioeconomic
benefits. They though that induced abortion would make women free and
able to care for their young children, it will enable students to complete studies and
achieve their goals, couples will be able to provide support to other children.
However, induced abortion made some women to experience psychological effects
such as shame, fear, guilt feelings and depression. Moreover, participants knew that
induced abortion was against religious teachings, custom and taboos and the national
policy of abortion.
