WHO: Every second woman who has decided to abortion, exposes her life in danger

At least 55.7 million abortions are performed annually in the world, almost half of which (25.1 million) is carried out in an unsafe way - underground, using invasive or "folk" means. This is evidenced by a study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Guttmacher Institute in New York, reports The Lancet magazine.

According to him, most unsafe abortions - 97% (24.3 million) - are performed in developing countries (in regions such as Africa, Asia and Latin America). At the same time, the ratio of unsafe and dangerous procedures here is almost one to one (49.5%). In developed countries, the share of unsafe abortion is much lower - only about one by nine (12.5%).

The largest number of safe abortions (almost 90%) was recorded in 57 countries where abortion is legally permitted. Meanwhile, in 62 countries where this medical service is completely or partially prohibited, less than a quarter of the termination of pregnancy were recognized as safe.

The researchers also found that about 47 thousand women die annually as a result of underground abortions. According to Trust.org , this is almost 13% of maternal mortality around the world.

To reduce the number of abortions, scientists urge to increase the availability of contraceptive means. At the same time, they consider it necessary to provide women with access to safe abortions in order to reduce the risk and number of deaths.