Factors associated with pregnancy termination in Ukrainian women

Abstract

Objectives: To study differences in social and demographic characteristics between women undergoing an induced abortion and antenatal care attendants in the Ukraine.

Design: Hospital-based unmatched case control study.

Methods: From a survey including 1,694 women of fertile age, who attended five women's clinics in the Donetsk region, Ukraine, we studied those who came for termination of pregnancy (n = 919) and for antenatal care (n = 478). The data were obtained through an anonymous self-questionnaire. From the 192-item questionnaire questions dealing with social and demographic characteristics, previous pregnancy experience, and attitude towards abortion were analyzed. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the risk of pregnancy termination.

Results: Termination of pregnancy was associated with being single (OR = 11.8). Both previous childbirth and previous induced abortion were other determinants as well as being younger than 19 years old (OR = 3.8), having a positive attitude towards abortion (OR = 2.7), and sharing apartment with parents (OR = 1.9). A higher risk for an induced abortion was found among women with a history of previous induced abortion(s). Neither income nor educational level was identified as a risk factor for pregnancy termination.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated major social and demographic differences between women attending for abortion and antenatal care patients, and highlights some of the factors influencing the decision to terminate a pregnancy.