Abstract:
The Philippines carries both cultural and legal barriers to abortion access. As a Catholic-majority
country, the Church exhausts efforts to protect life upon conception. The Philippine Penal Code
provides no clear exception to abortion. However, an underground market for abortion services
exists. Annually, 1.1 million induced abortions occur, with 1,000 Filipino women dying from
post-abortion complications (Marquez et al., 2020; Finer & Hussain, 2013). The study
investigated how stigma around unplanned pregnancy and loss of body autonomy influence
women to seek unsafe abortion despite the RH Law. Motivated by the lack of protections for
reproductive rights, the study aimed to (1) understand stigma for women who had abortions, (2)
examine experiences of body autonomy loss, (3) assess how perceptions influence abortion
decisions, (4) understand women’s views on the government's role in abortion regulation and
healthcare, and (5) uncover long-term social and personal implications of unsafe abortion. Using
an explanatory-sequential method, two surveys were conducted with 40 women (ages 18-30)
who sought abortion and six healthcare professionals. Four interviewees from the first phase
participated in in-depth interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using Google Sheets and
Jamovi, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings confirmed the persistent
stigma surrounding unplanned pregnancy, driving women toward unsafe abortion. Financial
reasons, health concerns, personal circumstances, pressure, and lack of support were key factors.
Stigma was marked by religious condemnation, shame, and fear of judgment. Women reported
initial helplessness but later reclaimed autonomy. Abortion decisions stemmed from health
concerns, financial insecurity, and agency over their futures. Respondents found the RH Law
moderately supportive but ineffective in reducing abortion stigma. Most reported no major
long-term implications, though some experienced guilt, stigma, or health issues. The study
underscores the need for improved post-abortion psychological care and highlights limitations in
the RH Law’s ability to protect women seeking post-abortion care.
