Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development, MEC Qedani Mahlangu, has warned women against the use of illegal methods of terminating pregnancies. Mahlangu expressed concern following a report in a daily newspaper about the sale the of cytotec tablets to terminate pregnancy. According to the report the tablets, which should be prescribed by a doctor and administered in a proper healthcare facility, are being sold to pregnant women on the street.
MEC Mahlangu urges women wishing to terminate their pregnancies to make use of government health facilities where this service is offered free of charge. Illegal termination of pregnancy poses danger to expectant mothers.
"Taking the legal route is essential in maintaining both your reproductive health and preventing complications such as severe bleeding, tearing of the cervix, severe damage to the genitals and abdomen or even death," she says.
At government health facilities, the procedure is done by qualified health practitioners using drugs and equipment kept under correct environment and temperatures for its effectiveness. The health setting also allows health workers to deal immediately with any complications that may arise.
The MEC emphasises that in South Africa, the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1996 allows an expectant mothers to terminate the pregnancy upon her request if she is within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This procedure can also be performed from the 13th to 20th week of pregnancy if approved by a medical practitioner.
The MEC called on the law enforcement agencies to crack down on those performing back street abortions as they are endangering the lives of many people.
Enquiries:
Mandla Sidu
Cell: 082 773 9013
Simon Zwane
Cell: 082 551 9892
Issued by: Department of Health and Social Development, Gauteng Provincial Government
1 December 2009
