An analysis of medical scheme-related pregnancy terminations in South Africa in 2022

Abstract

This research addresses the intricate dimensions of reproductive healthcare by examining the complex interplay of medical, legal, and ethical considerations surrounding abortion. The Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act (CTOP) of 1996 in South Africa aims to establish the circumstances and conditions under which a woman’s pregnancy may be terminated and addresses related matters. The Act specified that, for terminations during 0–12 weeks, safe medical procedures, primarily medication abortion, are predominant. In contrast, terminations during 13–20 weeks present additional complexities, requiring a combination of medical and surgical interventions.

Keywords

• abortion
• access to healthcare
• cross-sectional studies
• gestational age
• medical abortion
• south africa
• surgical abortion
• termination of pregnancy