Abstract : An investigation was conducted on the knowledge and practice of induced abortion in remote, rural, ethnically heterogeneous societies in Burkina Faso. Using clinical findings, key informant interviews, and a sample survey, 320 married women in 21 villages were studied. Results revealed that detailed knowledge of abortion and abortive plants is common among both the Fulani and the Gurmance. Among the respondents, 129 (56%) admitted knowing about abortions being carried out in their villages. Higher response rates and abortion knowledge were common among younger women and those belonging to the Islamic Hamallist and Wahabiya sectors. The best known abortifacient plant in the area was Securidaca longepedunculata, which contains both ergot-alkaloids and several poisonous substances; its adverse effects include heavy vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes death. This paper suggests the need for a rapid introduction of safer birth control methods in the region.
Source : Source Popline : http://db.jhuccp.org/popinform/basic.html - PIP 147699.