Global Abortion Policies Database
A tool to expand knowledge, encourage transparency, and promote accountability.
| Country or Region | |
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Uganda |
Not Specified
Read more On requestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person.
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| Country | Economic or social reasons |
Foetal impairment |
Rape |
Incest |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the woman |
Mental health |
Physical health |
Health |
Life |
Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uganda |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2.
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Foetal impairmentThe Constitution states: “No person has the right to terminate the life of an unborn child except as may be authorized by law.” The National Policy Guidelines and Service Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (Ministry of Health 2006) list the following as “people who can get services for termination of pregnancy”: severe maternal illnesses threatening the health of a pregnant woman e.g. severe cardiac disease, renal disease, severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia; severe foetal abnormalities which are not compatible with extra-uterine life e.g. molar pregnancy, anencephaly; cancer cervix; HIV-positive women requesting for termination; rape, incest and defilement. These are not noted as legal grounds on which induced abortion is permitted since the document in which they are set out is a policy document and not a law, as specified in the Constitution. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person.
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RapeThe Constitution states: “No person has the right to terminate the life of an unborn child except as may be authorized by law.” The National Policy Guidelines and Service Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (Ministry of Health 2006) list the following as “people who can get services for termination of pregnancy”: severe maternal illnesses threatening the health of a pregnant woman e.g. severe cardiac disease, renal disease, severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia; severe foetal abnormalities which are not compatible with extra-uterine life e.g. molar pregnancy, anencephaly; cancer cervix; HIV-positive women requesting for termination; rape, incest and defilement. These are not noted as legal grounds on which induced abortion is permitted since the document in which they are set out is a policy document and not a law, as specified in the Constitution. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person.
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IncestThe Constitution states: “No person has the right to terminate the life of an unborn child except as may be authorized by law.” The National Policy Guidelines and Service Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (Ministry of Health 2006) list the following as “people who can get services for termination of pregnancy”: severe maternal illnesses threatening the health of a pregnant woman e.g. severe cardiac disease, renal disease, severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia; severe foetal abnormalities which are not compatible with extra-uterine life e.g. molar pregnancy, anencephaly; cancer cervix; HIV-positive women requesting for termination; rape, incest and defilement. These are not noted as legal grounds on which induced abortion is permitted since the document in which they are set out is a policy document and not a law, as specified in the Constitution. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person.
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Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents: |
Mental healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2.
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Physical healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2.
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HealthThe Constitution states: “No person has the right to terminate the life of an unborn child except as may be authorized by law.” The National Policy Guidelines and Service Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (Ministry of Health 2006) list the following as “people who can get services for termination of pregnancy”: severe maternal illnesses threatening the health of a pregnant woman e.g. severe cardiac disease, renal disease, severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia; severe foetal abnormalities which are not compatible with extra-uterine life e.g. molar pregnancy, anencephaly; cancer cervix; HIV-positive women requesting for termination; rape, incest and defilement. These are not noted as legal grounds on which induced abortion is permitted since the document in which they are set out is a policy document and not a law, as specified in the Constitution. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2.
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Gestational limit appliesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person.
While methods of abortion may vary by gestational age, pregnancy can safely be ended regardless of gestational age. Gestational age limits are not evidence-based; they restrict when lawful abortion may be provided by any method. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that prohibit abortion based on gestational age limits. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.3.
Additional notesThe Penal Code Act provides in section 224, on surgical operations: “A person is not criminally responsible for performing in good faith and with reasonable care and skill a surgical operation upon any person for his or her benefit, or upon an unborn child for the preservation of the mother’s life, if the performance of the operation is reasonable, having regard to the patient’s state at the time, and to all the circumstances of the case.” |
OtherSurgical operation performed in good faith and with reasonable care and skill upon an unborn child for the preservation of the mother’s life, if the performance of the operation is reasonable, having regard to the patient’s state at the time, and to all the circumstances of the case Related documents: |
| Country | Authorization of health professional(s) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities only |
Judicial authorization for minors |
Judicial authorization in cases of rape |
Police report required in case of rape |
Parental consent required for minors |
Spousal consent |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat required |
Compulsory counselling |
Compulsory waiting period |
Mandatory HIV screening test |
Other mandatory STI screening tests |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortion |
Restrictions on information provided to the public |
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetus |
Other |
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Uganda |
No data
Authorization of health professional(s)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2.
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No data
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1.
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No data
Judicial authorization for minorsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2.
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Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion.
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Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion.
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No data
Parental consent required for minorsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2.
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No data
Spousal consentNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2.
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No data
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5.
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No data
Compulsory counsellingNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality.
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No data
Compulsory waiting periodNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1.
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No data
Mandatory HIV screening testNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1.
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No data
Other mandatory STI screening testsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1.
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No data
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement.
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No data
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited.
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No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4.
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Other |
| Country | National guidelines for induced abortion |
Methods allowed |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol) |
Where can abortion services be provided |
National guidelines for post-abortion care |
Where can post abortion care services be provided |
Contraception included in post-abortion care |
Insurance to offset end user costs |
Who can provide abortion services |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion services |
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Uganda |
National guidelines for induced abortionNo data foundWhere there is evidence of the existence of a source document that could not be accessed, including those that could not be translated for any reason, this information is provided in an accompanying note. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3.
Additional notesA document entitled “Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Uganda: Standards and Guidelines, 2015” was published by the Ministry of Health in April 2015 but the implementation of the Guidelines was reportedly subsequently suspended. No further information on the status of the guidelines was obtained. |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationNo data found A document entitled “Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Uganda: Standards and Guidelines, 2015” was published by the Ministry of Health in April 2015 but the implementation of the Guidelines was reportedly subsequently suspended. No further information on the status of the guidelines was obtained. Dilatation and evacuationNo data found A document entitled “Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Uganda: Standards and Guidelines, 2015” was published by the Ministry of Health in April 2015 but the implementation of the Guidelines was reportedly subsequently suspended. No further information on the status of the guidelines was obtained. Combination mifepristone-misoprostolNo data found A document entitled “Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Uganda: Standards and Guidelines, 2015” was published by the Ministry of Health in April 2015 but the implementation of the Guidelines was reportedly subsequently suspended. No further information on the status of the guidelines was obtained. Misoprostol onlyNo data found A document entitled “Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Uganda: Standards and Guidelines, 2015” was published by the Ministry of Health in April 2015 but the implementation of the Guidelines was reportedly subsequently suspended. No further information on the status of the guidelines was obtained. Other (where provided)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners.
Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1.
The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2.
The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2.
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Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Related documents:Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines.
Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines.
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Country recognized approval (misoprostol)Yes, for gynaecological indications Misoprostol allowed to be sold or distributed by pharmacies or drug storesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines.
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Where can abortion services be providedThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Primary health-care centresThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that aspects of comprehensive abortion care can be carried out in community outreach activities, HCII-III, HC IV, general hospitals and referral hospitals. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that aspects of comprehensive abortion care can be carried out in community outreach activities, HCII-III, HC IV, general hospitals and referral hospitals. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Specialized abortion care public facilitiesThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that aspects of comprehensive abortion care can be carried out in community outreach activities, HCII-III, HC IV, general hospitals and referral hospitals. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Private health-care centres or clinicsThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that aspects of comprehensive abortion care can be carried out in community outreach activities, HCII-III, HC IV, general hospitals and referral hospitals. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. NGO health-care centres or clinicsThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that aspects of comprehensive abortion care can be carried out in community outreach activities, HCII-III, HC IV, general hospitals and referral hospitals. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1.
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National guidelines for post-abortion careNo data foundWhere there is evidence of the existence of a source document that could not be accessed, including those that could not be translated for any reason, this information is provided in an accompanying note. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3.
Additional notesA document entitled “Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Uganda: Standards and Guidelines, 2015” was published by the Ministry of Health in April 2015 but the implementation of the Guidelines was reportedly subsequently suspended. No further information on the status of the guidelines was obtained. |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that post abortion care services are to be provided in all hospitals and health centers where there are doctors, midwives and clinical officers trained in comprehensive abortion care and where the minimum hygienic standards are met. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that post abortion care services are to be provided in all hospitals and health centers where there are doctors, midwives and clinical officers trained in comprehensive abortion care and where the minimum hygienic standards are met. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Specialized abortion care public facilitiesThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that post abortion care services are to be provided in all hospitals and health centers where there are doctors, midwives and clinical officers trained in comprehensive abortion care and where the minimum hygienic standards are met. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Private health-care centres or clinicsThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that post abortion care services are to be provided in all hospitals and health centers where there are doctors, midwives and clinical officers trained in comprehensive abortion care and where the minimum hygienic standards are met. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. NGO health-care centres or clinicsThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that post abortion care services are to be provided in all hospitals and health centers where there are doctors, midwives and clinical officers trained in comprehensive abortion care and where the minimum hygienic standards are met. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1.
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Contraception included in post-abortion careThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that post abortion care includes post abortion family planning and counseling (breaking the cycle of abortions through using proper contraception). It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4.
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Insurance to offset end user costsThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2.
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Who can provide abortion servicesThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. NurseThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Midwife/nurse-midwifeThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Doctor (specialty not specified)The 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNThe 2006 National Guidelines and Standards for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights stipulates that medical and surgical inductions may be undertaken by the following cadre: medical officers and gynae/surgeon. Nurses and midwives may undertake medical inductions and evacuation for incomplete abortion. It is not clear whether the 2006 version, or later versions, are currently in force. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8.
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Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNo data found Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNo data found Minimum number of bedsNo data found Other (if applicable)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1.
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| Country | Public sector providers |
Private sector providers |
Provider type not specified |
Neither Type of Provider Permitted |
Public facilities |
Private facilities |
Facility type not specified |
Neither Type of Facility Permitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uganda |
No data
Public sector providersNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9.
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No data
Private sector providersNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9.
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No data
Provider type not specifiedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9.
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No data
Neither Type of Provider PermittedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9.
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No data
Public facilitiesNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1.
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No data
Private facilitiesNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1.
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No data
Facility type not specifiedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1.
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No data
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1.
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Concluding Observations issued by respective treaty bodies and selected extracts related to abortion.
| Country | CAT |
CEDAW |
CERD |
CESCR |
CRC |
CRPD |
HRC |
IE HAIT |
SR HEALTH |
SR TORTURE |
SR VAW |
WG-DWLP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uganda |
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CEDAW“The Committee welcomes a number of efforts undertaken by the State party to improve women’s health since the examination of the last periodic report, including the prioritization of maternal health in the Health Sector Strategic Plan, the development of the Road-map for Reduction of Maternal and New-born Mortality and Morbidity and the reduction of the number of children who die before their first birthday from 88 to 75 per 1,000 live births during the same period. However, the Committee notes with concern that, despite a slight decline, maternal mortality rates remain very high (505 per 100,000 in 2001 as compared to 435 per 100,000 in 2006), with clandestine abortions being a major cause thereof. The Committee is also concerned at the very high number of teenage pregnancies, women’s limited access to quality reproductive and sexual health services, especially in rural areas, and that the existing sex education programmes are not sufficient, and may not give enough attention to the prevention of early pregnancy and the control of STIs. (...).”
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CESCR"The Committee is concerned that the conditions under which an abortion may be permitted in the State party are too restrictive. It is also concerned about the prevalence of unsafe abortions, which are a major cause of maternal mortality in the State party. The Committee is further concerned about the high rate of teenage pregnancy in the State party and at the inadequate sexual and reproductive health-care services and education for adolescents as well as the limited supply and use of contraceptives (art. 12). The Committee recommends that the State party revise its abortion legislation, including by considering decriminalizing abortion and providing for exceptions to the general prohibition on abortion in certain cases. It should also raise awareness on the legal exceptions among women and medic al health - care personnel and ensure women’s access to abortion and post - abortion care services without discrimination in order to combat the prevalence of unsafe and illegal abortions . The C ommittee also recommends that the S tate party redouble its efforts to bring down the high rate of teenage pregnancies and ensure the accessibility , availability and affordability of sexual and reproductive health services , particularly in rural areas. It further recommends that the S tate party expand and reinforce comprehensive and age-appropriate sexual and reproductive health education for both sexes in the curricula of primary and secondary schools , and introduce education and awareness-raising programmes for the public at large."
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Country specific information regarding abortion related penalties. Information regarding penalties has been presented in English only; this information is not based on an official translation. Please review the source documents provided.
| Country | Penalties deconstructed |
Penalties for woman |
Penalties for provider |
Penalties for person who assists |
Secondary additional considerations/judicial discretion |
Penalties for non-consensual abortion and or negligence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uganda |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
Penalties141. Attempts to procure abortion. Any person who, with intent to procure the miscarriage of a woman whether she is or is not with child, unlawfully administers to her or causes her to take any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for fourteen years. 142. Procuring miscarriage. Any woman who, being with child, with intent to procure her own miscarriage, unlawfully administers to herself any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means, or permits any such things or means to be administered to or used on her, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for seven years. 143. Supplying drugs, etc. to procure abortion. Any person who unlawfully supplies to or procures for any person any thing, knowing that it is intended to be unlawfully used to procure the miscarriage of a woman, whether she is or is not with child, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for three years. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62.
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Penalties141. Attempts to procure abortion. Any person who, with intent to procure the miscarriage of a woman whether she is or is not with child, unlawfully administers to her or causes her to take any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for fourteen years. 142. Procuring miscarriage. Any woman who, being with child, with intent to procure her own miscarriage, unlawfully administers to herself any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means, or permits any such things or means to be administered to or used on her, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for seven years. 143. Supplying drugs, etc. to procure abortion. Any person who unlawfully supplies to or procures for any person any thing, knowing that it is intended to be unlawfully used to procure the miscarriage of a woman, whether she is or is not with child, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for three years. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62.
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Penalties141. Attempts to procure abortion. Any person who, with intent to procure the miscarriage of a woman whether she is or is not with child, unlawfully administers to her or causes her to take any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for fourteen years. 142. Procuring miscarriage. Any woman who, being with child, with intent to procure her own miscarriage, unlawfully administers to herself any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means, or permits any such things or means to be administered to or used on her, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for seven years. 143. Supplying drugs, etc. to procure abortion. Any person who unlawfully supplies to or procures for any person any thing, knowing that it is intended to be unlawfully used to procure the miscarriage of a woman, whether she is or is not with child, commits a felony and is liable to imprisonment for three years. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62.
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PenaltiesNone found |
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