Abstract:
The aim of this article is to explore aspects of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts revealed in an evaluation of prenatal care. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative study with mothers in 1035 in the Metropolitan Region of Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil, admitted for labor in Unified Health System reference hospitals. The population survey collected demographic data, as well as data regarding feelings and expectations toward pregnancy. In the qualitative stage, semi-structured interviews were conducted. The results showed the attempt of unsafe abortion as a result of an unwanted pregnancy. Vulnerabilities were revealed among the sample of women, who demonstrated popular knowledge about abortion risks to the baby. It is understood that the women face the risk of an induced abortion, revealing moral conflicts that persist in Brazilian society, especially about the right to life and the right to women's autonomy.
Keywords:
mother child health; reproductive health; unwanted pregnancy; abortion; public health; Brazil