Induced abortion among Jimma comprehensive high school students: knowledge, attitude and practice

Abstract

Reproductive and other sexual health indicators among adolescent young women have been little studied in developing countries especially in Ethiopia and South west region in particular. Therefore, a cross sectional study using a self administered pretested confidential questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of 1067 sampled female students was carried out at Jimma Comprehensive High School in the month of February 1996. The information collected includes variables on socio- demography, and knowledge, attitude and practice on induced abortion. The information collected was analyzed using SPSS/PC computer program. 41.3%, 24.1% and 34.6% of the study subjects were in g", 10", and 11 grade respectively. 82.3% are within the age group 15-19. About 14% reported to be aware of at least one induced abortion method, 27.2% knew the health hazards of abortion, and 69% were not aware of contraceptive methods. Almost 35% had no information on legal issues of induced abortion, 20.72% wished induced abortion be legalized while 67.4% opposed. Based on the study findings, intensification of sex education, and provision of family planning information and services to adolescents with in the school environment is recommended.