Puri, M: Unintended pregnancy among young couples in Nepal

Research findings presented in this book demonstrates the problems involved in the conventional definition of measuring pregnancy intentions and suggests some alternative means of measuring them. The alternative definitions provided in this research address most of the methodological criticisms raised in recent years regarding the measurement of pregnancy intentions. For many years, pregnancy intention has been used as the basis for forecasting fertility and as a means of estimating the unmet need for contraception. Both these measures could be improved through the use of the alternative definition(s). This research also paint a picture of the problems of unintended pregnancy amongst young couples in Nepal. Despite legalisation of abortion, unsafe abortion is still not uncommon. Unsafe abortions are more likely to be sought by poorer, less educated and less knowledgeable couples. Lack of financial resources, socio-cultural practices and the low status of women are hindering young married women from seeking safe abortion services. Various factors intervene during the decision making process that make it dynamic and situation specific.