Community perceptions regarding legal choice of termination of pregnancy

Abstract

The Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act (Act 92 of 1996) states that “reproductive rights must be guaranteed and reproductive health services must promote people’s rights to privacy and dignity”, but most communities seem to lack proper information about this legislative aspect. The purpose of the study was to explore the community’s perceptions regarding legal choice of termination of pregnancy in order to have a broader understanding how the community views termination of pregnancy, and whether they are able to access legal termination of pregnancy. An exploratory qualitative study was conducted. The exploratory and descriptive research assisted the researcher to have adequate time to explore and describe the community’s perceptions about termination of pregnancy. The researcher purposely selected participants who consult at a particular Tshwane hospital as most of this particular community members presents with complications of illegal abortions. Both men and women above 18 years had an opportunity to participate. Data was collected until saturation is reached. Thematic analysis was conducted. The findings reveal that the community still needs to be given more information about rights and laws surrounding termination of pregnancy. Recommendations were made to create more awareness and improve access.