Strict legislation still limits access to abortions upon request in Liberia, but services are still available for women who fall under certain conditions. Both surgical and medical abortions are available at government-approved facilities.
Is abortion legal in Liberia?
Abortion is legal in Liberia if it is done to save the life of the woman; to preserve physical and/or mental health; in the case of rape or incest; and if there is fetal impairment. Abortion is not allowed for economic or social reasons, or on request [1].
What types of abortions are available in Liberia?
Both medical and in-clinic abortions are available in Ghana.
What is the abortion rate in Liberia? How many women have abortions?
The number of legally induced abortions per 1,000 women, between the ages of 15–44. Induced abortions are those initiated by deliberate action taken with the intention of terminating a pregnancy [2].
Abortion with pills (Medical Abortion)
Are the abortion pills (Mifepristone and Misoprostol) available in Liberia?
Yes, both Mifepristone and Misoprostol are available in Liberia.
How late into a pregnancy can the abortion pills be used?
The abortion pills can be safely used up to 13 weeks gestation [3].
Do I need a prescription for Mifepristone or Misoprostol?
Yes, a prescription is needed for both Mifepristone and Misoprostol.
What brands of abortion pills are popular in Liberia?
The most popular abortion pill brands are C-STOL, MM Combikit, and Mariprist [4].
How much do abortion pills cost in Liberia?
The cost ranges from 10 to 15 USD.
Who can I contact for more information in Liberia?
DKT sexual and reproductive health contact center: Call 5585 or WhatsApp at 088 114 0604
Marie Stopes Liberia: 3535
In-clinic abortion
What are the different types of in-clinic abortion procedures available in Liberia?
The following in-clinic procedures are available: Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) and Dilation and Curettage (D&C).
Is MVA safe?
MVA is a very safe method of abortion for pregnancies in the first trimester and/or early second trimester, all the way up to 14 weeks of gestation [2]. The gestational age limit for MVA often depends on the clinic as well as the health-care provider performing the procedure [5].
A legal MVA is performed by a trained provider in a clinic.
Where can I get a legal MVA abortion in Liberia?
MVA for post-abortion care only is legally available at most public and private hospitals across Liberia.
How much does MVA cost in Liberia?
The cost of an MVA for post-abortion care ranges from 25 to 50 USD.
Are there any side effects with MVA?
The most common side effect associated with MVA is strong cramps experienced during the procedure. Often this cramping will improve quickly afterwards, but some women may experience cramping on and off for a few days or weeks. This side effect is best managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen [5].
[1] “The World’s Abortion Laws Map.” Center for Reproductive Rights, reproductiverights.org/worldabortionlaws; Accessed September 2020.
[2] “Liberia Country Implementation Profile.” UNFPA, www.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/resource-pdf/FINAL_Liberia.pdf. Accessed September 2020.
[3] “Safe abortion: technical and policy guidance for health systems.” WHO, Second edition, apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/70914/9789241548434_eng.pd%20f?sequence=1. Accessed September 2020.
[4] “Medical Abortion Commodities Database.” IPPF, www.medab.org/. Accessed September 2020.
[5] “Clinical Updates in Reproductive Health.” Ipas, 2019, ipas.azureedge.net/files/CURHE19-april-ClinicalUpdatesInReproductiveHealth.pdf Accessed September 2020.