In addition, WHO has listed reproductive health services, including care during pregnancy and childbirth, as essential services. However, the challenge lies in ensuring safe abortion care as a component of reproductive health service. The emergence of Covid-19 has further worsened the sexual and reproductive health of women, who may be in danger of pregnancy complications and are therefore at risk of unsafe abortion. This is due to limited access to safe abortion services, limited access to contraceptives and movement restrictions due to curfew and lockdowns. Recognising access to safe abortion as an essential health service as classified by the World Health Organization will reduce abortion-related mortality and morbidity.

Source: The Star September 01, 2020 01:00 UTC