SEXUAL-ACTIVITY AND ATTITUDES TOWARD CONTRACEPTION AMONG WOMEN SEEKING TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY IN ZARIA, NORTHERN NIGERIA

One hundred and eight (108) women seeking termination of pregnancy in Zaria were studied during a period of 3 months (October to December 1985). The mean age was 21.8 years (range 15-38); 35.6% were below the age of 20 years and 57% were students. The three major tribes engage in illegal termination of pregnancy and Yorubas were in the majority; 53.3% had history of previous induced abortion. Sixty-three percent had had sexual experience by the age of 18 years. The major reasons for seeking termination of pregnancy were "still in school" and "not married." Although 88.8% had knowledge of contraception, less than half actually used any method. Of the 60 patients who volunteered information on their views on legalization of abortion, 21 (35%) were against legalization of abortion for various reasons. Family health education in schools and contraceptive counseling among the adolescents will reduce the prevalence of illegal abortions and its disastrous consequences.