Publication:

Determinants of medical termination of pregnancy with special reference to contraceptive practices among women in a tertiary care hospital in Central India

Background A safe and efficient way to end pregnancies in their early stages is by medical termination of pregnancy (MTP), commonly referred to as medical abortion. Considering the increasing MTP rates in our country and their consequences on women’s health, it is important to understand the underlying determinants of women choosing MTP in India. Hence this study was carried out is to assess contraceptive practices, the antenatal and socio-demographic determinants among women undergoing MTP in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods This was a hospital based cross-sectional study conducted in Obstetrics and Gynaecology ward of a tertiary care hospital in Nagpur, Maharashtra from July 2025 to October 2025 among 185 women undergoing MTP. Association between categorical variables was analyzed using Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test.

Results The most common reason for undergoing MTP was completed family while most common indication found was non usage of contraceptives. Age, socioeconomic status, gestational age, previous abortion, and spacing between pregnancies showed significant associations with indication for MTP.

Conclusions The findings highlight the need for strengthening contraceptive services and addressing behavioural and social barriers to reduce unintended pregnancies. Based on the above research findings, we recommend that a comprehensive counseling should be provided at all contact points, especially during antenatal visits, postnatal care, and post-abortion services to promote informed contraceptive choices including awareness programs for husbands.