Decampaign abortion
Authorities in Kasese District have reported an increase in the number of teenage girls undergoing abortions. Most of the abortions are performed on schoolgirls, by quacks, using crude instruments.
Authorities in Kasese District have reported an increase in the number of teenage girls undergoing abortions. Most of the abortions are performed on schoolgirls, by quacks, using crude instruments.
This should not be seen as a small problem limited to Kasese. Indeed it indicates a wider problem.
This is worrying. Firstly, an increase in abortion may imply that an increasing number of teenage girls are having unprotected, loose sex. And this exposes them to the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.
Secondly, under-cover abortion is the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in Uganda. Such abortions often lead to out-of-control bleeding and infection of the reproductive system. By the time the victim is taken to hospital it may be too late.
Thirdly, abortion is criminal because it is murder of the unborn.
Fourthly, abortion causes psychological problems for girls.
Those who undergo abortions suffer from post-abortion guilt that leads to emotional pain and depression. They often suffer silently because they do not want it widely known. This may affect their physical health as well as academic performance.
Teenage abortion demands more serious attention. It is not enough to have an anti-abortion law.
Government, NGOs and schools should initiate a massive anti-abortion campaign. This campaign should not simply emphasise that abortion is criminal. It should clearly explain the dangers of abortion and spell out the available alternatives.
It should address the root cause of abortions and also aim at reducing unwanted pregnancies.
On the other hand the many girls who suffer from post-abortion complications have a right to health care and life. Therefore hospitals country-wide should be equipped and staff given the necessary training to handle post-abortion complications.
This should not be seen as a small problem limited to Kasese. Indeed it indicates a wider problem.
This is worrying. Firstly, an increase in abortion may imply that an increasing number of teenage girls are having unprotected, loose sex. And this exposes them to the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.
Secondly, under-cover abortion is the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in Uganda. Such abortions often lead to out-of-control bleeding and infection of the reproductive system. By the time the victim is taken to hospital it may be too late.
Thirdly, abortion is criminal because it is murder of the unborn.
Fourthly, abortion causes psychological problems for girls.
Those who undergo abortions suffer from post-abortion guilt that leads to emotional pain and depression. They often suffer silently because they do not want it widely known. This may affect their physical health as well as academic performance.
Teenage abortion demands more serious attention. It is not enough to have an anti-abortion law.
Government, NGOs and schools should initiate a massive anti-abortion campaign. This campaign should not simply emphasise that abortion is criminal. It should clearly explain the dangers of abortion and spell out the available alternatives.
It should address the root cause of abortions and also aim at reducing unwanted pregnancies.
On the other hand the many girls who suffer from post-abortion complications have a right to health care and life. Therefore hospitals country-wide should be equipped and staff given the necessary training to handle post-abortion complications.