Opinion of Midwifery School Students About Termination of Pregnancy Without Medical Indication: An Example of a Public University

Abstract

Objective:Termination of pregnancies without medical indications causes debates in terms of humanitarian, ethical and religious values. In this context, the aim of our study is to investigate the perspectives/opinions of midwifery students regarding unindicated pregnancy terminations.Methods:In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 329 students studying at the Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, of a Public University participated. To collect the data, a 17-question questionnaire form prepared in line with the literature was used. In the analysis of the data, number-percentage distribution, mean, standard deviation and chi square test were used.Results:In marriage, termination of pregnancies up to 10th weeks in health institutions with the consent of the person is more accepted as the class of students increases. In the same circumstances, the idea that the legal period for termination of pregnancy should be less than 10 weeks was defended more as the class increased. Termination of pregnancies after 10th week was rejected with high rates by all grades. At the same time, the idea that mother should be punished in case of terminating the pregnancy regardless of gestational age and without obtaining father’s consent was accepted in all classes. However, the idea that it was appropriate to terminate pregnancies as a result of rape in authorized health institutions without observing legal limits was accepted in all classes.Conclusion:In the study, it was determined that students’ perspectives on termination of pregnancy other than medical necessity differed between classes. The main reason for the differences was thought to be the theoretical and practical knowledge of the students, which increased from the 3rd grade.

Keywords

• termination of pregnancy
• midwifery students
• rape