From abortion to contraception in Europe.

OBJECTIVES

This review summarizes abortion statistics, mainly in Europe and primarily in Eastern Europe. The reasons for unwanted pregnancies and consequent abortions are analyzed. Recommendations are proposed to achieve a shift from abortion to contraception in fertility regulation.

METHODS

The relevant literature and the results of the data collected by the author in 16 Eastern European countries by means of a questionnaire are reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

The need and the possibilities for better future perspectives are outlined in the conclusions of The Szeged Declaration. The major problems identified were the low level or lack of training of professionals, deficiencies in the knowledge of current family planning methods among professionals, consumers, policy makers and media representatives, the lack of supplies of modern contraceptives to meet the needs of the population, the lack of sex education in schools and the high level of induced abortions. In the majority of the countries in the Eastern European region, there is a need for the establishment of a system for the delivery of high-quality family planning services. This imposes a requirement for the establishment of a system for the continuous supply of contraceptives, through national family planning programs, by governmental and/or nongovernmental organizations. To increase contraceptive use, countries in this region should consider the establishment of extensive educational programs on current family planning methods and other aspects of reproductive health for their health professionals, consumers and representatives of the media. Sex education in schools should be promoted. Governments should be encouraged to invest more in setting up and running family planning services and programs.