Young single women using abortion in Hanoi, Viet Nam

Abstract

This study describes the population characteristics among a hospital-based sample of single women who experienced an abortion in Hanoi, Viet Nam. Data were obtained from topical and in-depth interviews with women in two Hanoi hospitals, a district health center, and a private clinic in Hadong, a Hanoi suburb. The total sample consisted of 279 single women. 75% were residents of Hanoi. In-migrants had lived in Hanoi for an average of 4 years. Over 80% lived with their parents or relatives, of whom 60% lived in privately-owned housing. Nearly 20% lived alone. Nearly 40% had a college education; almost 50% had completed secondary school. The average monthly income was 358,000 dong. Over 95% had a boyfriend at the time of the survey. 33% had engaged in their first sexual intercourse within the prior year. The average duration between first sex and abortion was about 15 months. Among those with the first boyfriend, the interval was shorter (7 months). About 45% waited 6 months before having their first sexual intercourse; 38% waited 1 year. Among first abortion users, under 20% had ever used a contraceptive method. The few that had used contraception used it ineffectively. Almost 50% had never talked about sexuality with anyone. Over 93% believed that the pregnancy could have been avoided. Most desired high-quality printed information and a youth-specific health center. Qualitative findings revealed misconceptions about contraception. Following abortion, most did not want another unwanted pregnancy. The implications for policies and programs are identified.