WHO Multi-Country Survey on Abortion (WHOMCS-A)

Overview

According to WHO, abortion accounts for 8% [4.7-13.2] of maternal mortality worldwide. However, capturing accurate information on abortion is a challenge especially in restricted settings. There is limited data on morbidity associated with abortion and its management, as well as lack of standard measurement of severity. In 2010-2011, the WHO Multi-Country Survey (MCS) on Maternal and Newborn Health collected data on over 300 000 women who received pregnancy related care across 29 countries. As part of this survey, data was collected on women with severe maternal outcomes related to abortion who sought care at the participating health facilities. Analysis conducted on this component underlined the underreporting of abortion-related morbidity and also the need for providing evidence-based abortion services.

Building on existing literature and the WHO MCS network and research experience, the Multi-Country Survey on Abortion (MCS-A): Abortion-related Morbidity is a multi-country survey aimed at capturing the burden and severity of abortion-related complications and management among women presenting to health facilities. In addition, the study explores the safety of abortion and experience of care as reported by women.

The primary objectives of the study are: 1) To assess the burden of complications related to abortion and their severity in study facilities; 2) To determine the management of abortion-related complications; 3) To explore the safety of abortion and experience of care; 4) To assess institutional capacity for provision of safe abortion and management of complications; and 5) To establish research capacity with the participating countries and regions to further strengthen abortion-related research.