Abstract

Nigeria, with the largest population in Africa, has a restrictive abortion law, and a high rate of induced abortion. The objective of this study was to explore women’s decision-making process for self-managed abortions and the support they received from people in their network during the abortion process. Secondary data collected by Guttmacher Institute on misoprostol-containing medications to terminate a pregnancy in Lagos State was used for the study. Forty-nine percent of women visited a drug seller that they used frequently for other health problems; while 25% were referred to the drug seller by friends. Sixty-two percent of respondents reported confiding in at least one person who they trusted, from whom the majority reported receiving emotional support. Self-managed abortions are an increasingly important option for people, especially where abortion is legally restricted, and having support during the abortion process helps women manage their abortions.