Self-managed abortion practices and post-abortion care experiences among women of reproductive age in Southwest Nigeria

Self-managed abortion poses risks and challenges, and the current healthcare system fails to adequately address post-abortion issues. This study aimed to examine self-managed abortion practices, post-abortion care experiences, and the difficulties in accessing abortion drugs in Southwest Nigeria, among women in their reproductive ages. Qualitative research methods were employed. Between February and April 2023, fifteen in-depth interviews were conducted with women aged 15 to 49 years. Self-managed abortions were associated with both satisfying and disappointing outcomes. Women used various drugs such as misoprostol, mifepristone, Mifestad, Cytotec, white quinine, and a combination of 'alabukun' and lime to induce abortion. Accessing abortion drugs presented several challenges. In conclusion, self-managed abortion poses challenges related to accessing safe drugs and resorting to the use of alternative remedies to prescription-based drugs. At least as a harm reduction strategy, it is crucial to ensure the availability of safe abortion medications to discourage women from choosing risky self-managed abortion methods as alternatives.