My Body, Their Choice: Exploring the Intersection of Gender-Based Stigma and the Reproductive Health Law through the Understanding of the Political Dynamics of Unsafe Abortion

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.