Unwanted fertility, contraception and induced abortion in South Africa

Research findings on the prevalence of unwanted fertility and induced abortion in South Africa are discussed. Attention is drawn to the historical, health and demographic aspects of abortion, the factors influencing abortion legislation and the human rights dilemma. The interaction between abortion and contraception is sketched and factors that could constrian the provision of abortion services are indicated. The current abortion legislation in South Africa and its interpretation restricts access to safe abortion procedures, particularly for indigent women. Unsafe abortions constitute a serious health risk to women and the liberalisation of abortion legislation, to make provision for induced abortion, is in the interest of the population.