The Abortion Supervisory Committee, in its annual report released this week, said there was a “sharp decline” in the number of 15-19 years olds having abortions.
The committee said this was an encouraging trend.
It partially attributed this decline to greater use of contraceptive implants.
However, the committee also said anecdotal evidence suggested many women with the subcutaneous implants inserted now wanted them removed due to side effects.
The implants were inserted in the upper arm, releasing the progestin hormone to prevent eggs leaving ovaries.
The Committee said it was harassment of women visiting hospital facilities, and the distribution of offensive material was troubling.
“Women attend medical service providers for a variety of reasons and should be able to enter clinics without feeling they are the subject of coercion or humiliation.” Continue reading