Fact Sheet: Abortion Incidence and Severity of Related-Complications in Liberia

Abstract

This fact sheet summarizes findings from a 2021 nationwide abortion study in Liberia, conducted between September 2021 and March 2022 by the Ministry of Health, the Clinton Health Access Initiative Liberia, the African Population and Health Research Center, and the Guttmacher Institute. The study aimed to estimate the incidence of induced abortion nationally and to document the magnitude and severity of abortion-related complications among women seeking care. Liberia has among the highest maternal mortality ratios in the world, and unsafe abortion, carried out where legal access remains restricted, is understood to be a significant contributor to this burden, though it has historically been under-documented. The fact sheet condenses the study's key statistics, including estimated abortion incidence rates and the profile of complications presenting at health facilities, into a format designed for policymakers, health workers, and advocates. Findings are intended to inform ongoing legislative reform of Liberia's Public Health Law and to strengthen programming aimed at expanding access to safe abortion care and post-abortion services, ultimately contributing to reductions in preventable maternal deaths linked to unsafe abortion practices in the country.