International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Access to abortions for women is vital in order to reduce maternal mortality.

Amy Levi, a professor of midwifery at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, stated only a few nations around the world allow non-physicians to perform abortions both surgically and medically (with drugs).

Speaking to Reuters, she said: "Access to safe abortion is imperative for reducing maternal mortality worldwide."

Ms Levi stressed the need to keep the conversation about access to abortion going in order to ensure it is an issue that remains in the public eye.

Data from the Guttmacher Institute, which is a sexual and reproductive health organisation, suggests 39 states require abortions to be performed by a licensed physician.

Jamaica's minister with responsibility for Information Sandrea Falconer recently told the Jamaica Observer that unsafe abortions, haemorrhage, embolism and hypertension are among the factors that account for half of all maternal deaths.

Posted by Alexandra George