Attitudes and perceptions about prenatal diagnosis and induced abortion among adults of Pakistani population

Objectives Perception and attitude regarding prenatal screening and induced abortion vary across different populations. This study assesses the attitudes and perceptions regarding prenatal screening and induced abortion among Pakistani adults. Methods We conducted a cross‐sectional study among adults (18+) coming to the Aga Khan University Hospital, a private tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Results Majority (65%) of the study population had knowledge about prenatal screening and it was acceptable to most (85.5%) of them. Significant proportion had high acceptance for induced abortion (23%) of a fetus that has serious congenital anomalies. On the other hand, 15% were unwilling to consider termination of pregnancy (TOP) in any circumstances. Women had more favorable attitude toward induced abortion. Most of the respondents (63%) were in favor of abortion if fetal death was imminent as a result of a congenital abnormality. Majority wanted mutual consultation of husband and wife for making decision regarding induced abortion (84%). Conclusion There was a considerable discord in opinion about abortion in the study population. Health care providers should involve both parents in making decisions about abortions and counsel them adequately about congenital disorders. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.