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Barriers to safe abortion care in internally displaced persons camps in Ethiopia: a qualitative study.

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This qualitative study examines barriers to safe abortion care among women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Ethiopia using the Social Ecological Model (SEM). Data were collected through in-depth and key informant interviews with displaced women, healthcare providers, community leaders, NGO representatives, and policymakers. The findings reveal multi-level challenges, including personal and structural barriers, where cultural and religious beliefs, financial constraints, and limited education prevent women from access to safe abortion care. Social networks and healthcare providers play a critical role, with unsupportive partners and providers' moral objections worsening the situation. Community stigma and social norms perpetuate misinformation and isolation, while societal barriers such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure and policy gaps further limit access. Urgent, coordinated action is critical. The Ministry of Health, humanitarian organizations, and local leaders must expand healthcare access, ensure legal protections, combat Sexual and Gender Based violence, and dismantle stigma. Without urgent intervention, displaced women will continue facing life-threatening risks.

Source: African Journal of Reproductive Health

DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29is.10

Authors: Samrawit S Ethiopia, Andamlak G Alamdo, Fanna A Debele, Ferid A Abubeker, Mitikie M Sisay

Institutions: St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa University

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive Health and Contraception

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4414934317

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