Note that education on unsafe and ineffective abortion needs to be extended as well to health professionals, who often are unaware of what is going on. Identify situations where information and support programs will be most needed, including education on sex and sexuality for young people. We see that there is a need to reach young unmarried adults about abortion issues, but the research also reminds us that many abortions occur among older women who have had several children. On the average, it seems that the desired number of children is about three, and therefore the lack of access to effective contraception may result in an unwanted pregnancy and abortion. Maternity hospitals might want to consider intensifying their family planning advice to women having their second or third child.
Programs are also important for pregnant women who are thinking of abortion as an option.
Finally, programs need to be put into place for women who go through abortion, offering non-judgmental counseling and support. Health professionals need to be trained for post-abortion care. Many health professionals are not familiar with post-abortion care procedures. Laboratory tests need to be performed, and antibiotics have to be given. Post-abortion care must include counseling and family planning advice.