Incidence, Regional Variation and Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Second Trimester Abortions in India: Evidence from National Family Health Survey (2019-21)

Chander Shekhar, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Harihar Sahoo, International Institute For Population Sciences
Labhita Das, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

Background: Compared to first trimester abortions, those in the second trimester significantly contribute to maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income settings This study aimed at the second trimester abortion (SSA) incidence, regional variation and sociodemographic characteristics in India. Sixty months' retrospective calendar data for 7,696 women aged 15-49 years from the fifth round of National Family Health Survey (2019-2021) was used for the study. Bivariate analysis was conducted to assess the second trimester abortion incidence by sociodemographic characteristics and major states. A binary logistic multivariable regression was run to find the factors associated with second trimester abortion. An attempt to assess providers' capacity offering SSA in six states representing each region will be conducted using unintended pregnancy and abortion incidence study in India (2015) data. Thirteen percent of all women who underwent an abortion had delayed their termination till second trimester. Women from southern states, rural residence, and nil years of education were more likely to report to have abortion in second trimester. The surgical method is preferred among women seeking second trimester abortions. Hence, there is a need for strengthening awareness of effective modern contraceptive methods and promotion of much safer method like Manual Vacuum Aspiration.

Keywords: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Family Planning and Contraception, Linked data sets , Fertility

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