[Reproductive health and abortion in Antananarivo (Madagascar): results of an original research].

In Madagascar, voluntary termination of pregnancy is totally forbidden. However, many women resort to it, most especially in the capital, Antananarivo. These secret abortions are carried out not only by traditional birth attendants but also by private medical practitioners. This article presents the results of a research conducted on 193 women interviewed in 2005 when they came to consult a doctor and seek abortion. This first survey was complemented by qualitative data collected from students who had already had an abortion, but most especially the young ones, spinsters and those still in school. The latter try to delay the time of first childbirth in order to complete their studies, to find a first job and to get married. The young girls have a very limited access to contraception and their contraceptive choice yet depends on the willingness of their sexual partners