Attitudes and perceptions about prenatal diagnosis and induced abortion among adults of Pakistani population.

Objectives: Perception and attitude regarding prenatal screening and induced abortion vary across different populations. This study assesses the attitudes and perceptions regarding prenatal screening and induced abortion among Pakistani adults.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among adults (18+) coming to the Aga Khan University Hospital, a private tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.

Results: Majority (65%) of the study population had knowledge about prenatal screening and it was acceptable to most (85.5%) of them. Significant proportion had high acceptance for induced abortion (23%) of a fetus that has serious congenital anomalies. On the other hand, 15% were unwilling to consider termination of pregnancy (TOP) in any circumstances. Women had more favorable attitude toward induced abortion. Most of the respondents (63%) were in favor of abortion if fetal death was imminent as a result of a congenital abnormality. Majority wanted mutual consultation of husband and wife for making decision regarding induced abortion (84%).

Conclusion: There was a considerable discord in opinion about abortion in the study population. Health care providers should involve both parents in making decisions about abortions and counsel them adequately about congenital disorders.