Strategic Communication and Capacity Building to Combat False Narrative on Abortion and Health Workers’ Attitudes in Lagos State

Strategic Communication and Capacity Building to Combat False Narrative on Abortion and Health Workers’ Attitudes in Lagos State

By Prince Benson Davies

Lagos, a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modern culture, is a hub of economic opportunities, vibrant markets, and stunning beaches. However, beneath its dynamic surface, the city grapples with challenges like notorious traffic congestion, security concerns, and a high cost of living. Unfortunately, misconceptions about abortion are widespread, casting a shadow over the lives of countless women.

The Impact of Misinformation

Misinformation about abortion can have far-reaching consequences, perpetuating a cycle of fear, shame, and silence. When women are misinformed about their rights and options, they may resort to unsafe and clandestine abortions, risking their lives and health in the process. According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 22,000 women die annually from unsafe abortions worldwide, with many more suffering from preventable complications.

In Nigeria, the situation is particularly alarming. The lack of access to safe and legal abortion care forces many women to seek dangerous alternatives, often performed in unsanitary conditions by unqualified individuals. This not only puts their lives at risk but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty, inequality, and social injustice.

Health Workers’ Attitudes

Health workers’ attitudes towards women seeking abortion care can be a significant barrier to accessing safe and compassionate care. Some health workers may delay or deny treatment, use judgmental language, or create an environment of fear and shame. This can discourage women from seeking help and put their lives at risk.

However, there are health workers who recognise the importance of providing respectful and evidence-based care. They understand that women seeking abortion care are making difficult choices, often due to circumstances beyond their control. These health workers prioritize women’s health and well-being, providing supportive and non-judgmental care.

Some of the Health Workers’ Views

A Lagos-based medical Doctor, David said, “I’ve seen colleagues who are hesitant to provide abortion care due to personal beliefs or biases. However, we must separate our personal views from our professional obligations and provide care that is respectful and evidence-based.”
For Nkiru, a Nurse “Some nurses may view women seeking abortion care as ‘immoral’ or ‘irresponsible.’ However, we must recognize that these women are making difficult choices, often due to circumstances beyond their control. Our role is to provide supportive and non-judgmental care.”
A policymaker, Hon. Fola Idris, noted, “The STOP Guideline is essential for ensuring safe, legal, and compassionate care. We must work together to reinstate this policy and provide health workers with clear standards of practice. By doing so, we can reduce maternal mortality and morbidity and promote a culture of respect and empathy for women’s health and rights.”

Impact of Health Workers’ Attitude

Building Trust: When health workers provide respectful and evidence-based care, women are more likely to seek help and receive the treatment they need.
Creating Fear: Judgmental attitudes and language can create fear and discourage women from seeking help, putting their lives at risk.
Reducing Stigma: By promoting respectful and evidence-based care, we can reduce stigma, save lives, and support women’s health and rights.

The Role of Organisations like Leadership Initiative for Youth Empowerment (LIFE)

Organisations like Leadership Initiative for Youth Empowerment (LIFE) play a crucial role in combating false narratives on abortion and promoting women’s health and rights. LIFE has a proven record of engaging grassroots communities in Lagos, Nigeria, and has provided support to 68 survivors of gender-based and sexual assault.

Their work highlights the vulnerability of young women and girls to sexual and gender-based violence. Over 85% of survivors supported by LIFE are girls under the age of 18 and women between the ages of 18 and 35. The most common types of GBV cases reported and supported by LIFE include wife battery, emotional and physical abuse, defilement, and sexual assault.

Call to Action

LIFE is calling on the government and society to get involved in combating GBV and promoting women’s health and rights. They urge individuals to volunteer, donate, advocate, and spread awareness about GBV prevention laws and policies. By working together, we can challenge false narratives, promote accurate information, and support women’s health and rights.

Conclusion

Combating false narratives on abortion and health workers’ attitudes requires a multifaceted approach. It requires strategic communication, capacity building, and community engagement. By working together, we can create a society that values and prioritizes women’s lives, provides access to safe, legal, and compassionate care, and promotes a culture of respect and empathy for women’s health and rights.

Let’s create a brighter future for women’s health and well-being. A future where women have access to accurate information, supportive care, and the ability to make informed choices about their reproductive health. Together, we can make a difference and promote a society that values and prioritizes women’s lives.