Abortion in the Marshall Islands

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Abortion in the Marshall Islands is only legal if the abortion will save the pregnant woman's life.[1] In the Marshall Islands, even if physicians determine an abortion is life-saving for the woman, she must receive consent from her spouse, undergo counseling, and she must sign a form consenting to use family planning services after the medical procedure.[1] Before any treatment related to reproductive health, minors need consent from a parent or guardian.[2]

Out of the 24 inhabited atolls, only 2 (Majuro and Kwajalein) have facilities providing information about pre and postnatal care, contraception, and skilled delivery assistance.[2] Because abortions are not readily available as an elective procedure, some women attempt to carry out a self-induced abortion (through local or traditional methods) or have someone punch them in the stomach. [3]

References

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  1. ^ a b Division, United Nations Dept of Economic and Social Affairs Population (2001-01-01). Abortion Policies: A Global Review. United Nations Publications. ISBN 9789211513615.
  2. ^ a b "Marshall Islands". United States Department of State.
  3. ^ United Nations Population Fund (2014). Republic of the Marshall Islands National Study on Family Health and Safety (PDF) (Report). Republic of the Marshall Islands Ministry of Internal Affairs.