El problema del aborto provocado en Chile / The problem of induced abortion in Chile

ABSTRACT

The incidence of induced abortion in Chile, especially among women from 20 to 44 years of age, is well known. On the basis of the 1960 census, the authors obtained random samples from three representative areas in the country one from the urban population of Santiago, another from Antofagasta, and the third from the Province of Concepción. Through home visits, data relating to abortion were obtained from 3,926 women. After examining and comparing these data from various points of view, the authors conclude that the epidemiological situation with respect to induced abortions in Chile requires urgent preventive measures. There are susceptible groups - such as those 20 to 34 years of age and a small proportion of women with a history of repeated abortions - which amount to a thrid of the total cases examined. The incidence is high among married women, among women with up to three living children, and among those with low incomes. The majority of abortions are performed by non-qualified persons and methods used are dangerous. The authors conclude that contraceptive measures should replace induced abortions