CASDI Trust was selected for a poster presentation at the 23rd International AIDS Conference, which due to COVID-19 was held virtually between the 6th and 10th of July 2020.
The presentation was entitled:
“Harmful abortion practices by young sexworkers in Zimbabwe.”
Below is the presentation made at the conference:
For Easy reading, below is the full text version of the presentation:
Title:
Harmful abortion practices by young sexworkers in Zimbabwe.
Type:
Lessons learned
Authors:
T. Maphosa, CASDI Trust, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Country of Research:
Zimbabwe
Key and vulnerable populations:
Sex workers, Young women and girls (15-24), Adolescents (10-19)
Abstract text:
Background
CASDI Trust, a local Zimbabwean non-profit organization is currently implementing an SRH program in Harare and Masvingo provinces with an objective of improving access to relevant SRH information, HIV and SRH services by young people including key population groups such as young sexworkers. Research from the operational area has shown that there is an increased number of young people aged between 14 and 24 seeking post-abortion care services, and increased cases of baby dumping especially in Masvingo Province. However, there is no evidence in official health records that indicate abortion services being a sought after service.
Description
The program actively engages in-school and out of school young people through youth hubs in both rural and urban operational areas where HIV testing and counselling services are provided, as well as contraception services. This is done in partnership with other NGOs that offer specialized SRH services in the community. The youth hubs act as centers where young people gather, socialize and also have access to relevant SRH services. Trainings on community based advocacy are conducted by CASDI Trust, and key stakeholders such as policy makers actively participate in the program.
Lessons
The table below is a summary of the most popular abortion methods and procedures used by young people aged between 14-24, especially those that are actively engaged in sexwork. The data was obtained from the youth hubs:
Abortion Method | Procedure |
Euphorbia Tirucalli (Rubber Euphorbia) | The hedge produces a milky substance that is believed to be strong enough to terminate the pregnancy. The fresh part of the hedge is directly inserted into the vagina until bleeding occurs. |
Ricinus Communis (Castor Oil Plant) | The leaf of the plant is boiled to produce a concoction that is consumed by the patient. Some of the leaves are directly inserted into the vagina until bleeding occurs. |
Coca-Cola Soft Drink and Bicarbonate of Soda | The Coca-Cola soft drink is boiled and then Bicarbonate of soda is added to produce a concoction that is believed to eliminate the pregnancy. |
Crochet Hook | The crochet hook is directly inserted into the vagina and the uterus to hook out the developing foetus. Most of those who chose to use this method die from excessive bleeding. |
Wire Hanger | The principle is the same as the crochet where a wire hanger is inserted into the vagina and the developing foetus is pulled out. Most of those who chose to use this method die from excessive bleeding. |
Family Planning Pills Overdose | An overdose of family planning pills is done, usually 2 or 3 tablets taken per day until bleeding occurs. |
Abortion Pills (mifepristone and misoprostol) | Those who can afford to purchase the abortion tablets either from outside Zimbabwe, illegal black market or backdoor dealings with health personnel from registered facilities usually do not follow recommended procedures. Tablets are administered privately in their homes, and some pregnancies will be beyond the recommended period for abortion leading to pregnancy complications or death. |
There is evidence that young people, especially young sexworkers are actively aborting using harmful practices, and that there are many undocumented abortion deaths that have occurred as a result of the illegal nature of abortion in Zimbabwe. Current law in Zimbabwe views abortion as a criminal offence if not authorized by the court of law, leading to such harmful practices.
Conclusions:
CASDI Trust will continue to gather relevant information through its youth hubs, and continue to advocate for policy change on Zimbabwean abortion laws.