Aim: To investigate the demographic, social, familial environmental and medical characteristics of women under 18 years having recourse to elective abortion (EA).
Methods: cross-sectional observational study from 01/02/2015 to 01/02/2016.
Results: 2626 EA were performed during study period and 210 (8%) minor women were identified. 90 (43%) were included. Mean patient age was 16 (15.5;17.0) years. Among them, 58 (65%) had been in a relationship >6 months. Parents of minor was separated in 48% of cases. Gestational age mean at pre-abortion consultation was 48.0(+/-8.4) and 45 (50%) had no contraception before EA. It was her own choice for 85 (93%) minors and main motivation for asking EA was "young age" or "studies". Minors was accompanied by mother in 47% of cases.
Conclusion: Women under 18 with unplanned pregnancies are more likely to come from single-parent families, have a shorter schooling, and a worse relationship with their parents. Although the decision was often taken on their own, the role of the accompanying adult seems to be crucial for teenagers. Their partner is also a source of support. Sexual education is still important to enhance knowledge about the law and the accessibility to EA.
Keywords: Elective abortion; Induced abortion; Minor; Teenager; Unplanned pregnancy.
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