Access pathways to self-managed abortion in a Central American country with a total abortion ban

Abstract

Restrictive laws, limited services and stigma shape access to abortion in Central America. This qualitative study examined pathways to access information and medicationinduced abortion in a country with a total abortion ban. We recruited participants through local accompaniers and international websites that advise on safe abortions, conducting 13 in-depth interviews with women who had aborted using misoprostol. The participants reported difficulties accessing accurate information, medications and support, as well as fear of criminalization and stigma. In addition to searching on the Internet, they relied on personal contacts, notably “feminist friends”, who provided trusted support. Those who interacted with the formal health system reported obstetric violence and criminalization threats. In this context, access to abortion depends on personal networks to a large extent, rendering accurate information and abortion accompaniment essential.