Abortion in the framework of family planning in Estonia.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the legal status of abortion and trends in childbirth, abortions and contraceptive use in Estonia.


METHODS
National statistical data on induced abortions, spontaneous abortions, births and contraceptive use in Estonia.


RESULTS
Even though induced abortion is legal in Estonia, the abortion rate has been declining but is still high and in 1994 was 53.8 per 1000 women of fertile age. Among young women under 20 years of age, abortions decreased slightly in the period 1992-94 (from 55.5 to 41.5 per 1000). The birth rate has been declining rapidly in recent years, resulting in a net population reduction. The use of modern contraceptives is increasing but is still low.


CONCLUSIONS
Survey on abortion and on contraceptive sales and use are needed. To improve family planning and prevent unwanted pregnancies it is important to increase awareness among the entire population--and especially among young people--by information, education and communication. A high standard of counseling, including pre- and postabortion counseling and in the youth services, is essential.
Karro
H
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Women's Clinic, University of Tartu, Estonia.
D000028:Abortion, Induced / Q000706:statistics & numerical data* / Q000639:trends; D000029:Abortion, Legal; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001723:Birth Rate; D003270:Contraceptive Agents; D004957:Estonia; D005193:Family Planning Services; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D033242:Minors; D033282:Parental Consent; D011247:Pregnancy; D012736:Sex Education
D003270:Contraceptive Agents