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Women who have experienced an abortion are invited to take part in a study into the post-abortion experience.

A researcher at The University of Western Australia is seeking women over the age of 21 who have accessed abortion services in Australia within the past 10 years, and were over the age of 18 at the time of the abortion.

Study author and PhD student Dorinda ’t Hart, from UWA’s School of Human Sciences, is interested in understanding the personal experiences and reflections of women who have sought abortion services.

“On the one hand, abortion is seen to be a normal part of reproductive health, and on the other hand, it continues to be part of significant debates,” Mrs ’t Hart said.

“I’m interested in listening to women who would like to share their experience with me. I’d like to understand the complexity of such a challenging decision and the ongoing reflection that occurs post-abortion.”

Statistics indicate that one in four women have an abortion at some point during their life. That would mean that in all probability, approximately 120,000 women in Perth have experienced at least one abortion.

“Numbers-wise, that means that abortion impacts many Australian women,” Mrs ’t Hart said. “But we don’t often talk about the reflective journey that occurs after the event.”

Participants of the study will take part in an interview at a location where they feel comfortable.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting these women affected and hearing their story,” Mrs ’t Hart said.

“I realise that an abortion is not something people often talk about. I really appreciate the time women are able to give me to share their valuable experiences contribute important information to the study and that’s why I’m offering a $25 gift card for each participant.”

Anyone who would like to share their experience to contribute to the study can email [email protected]

Media references

Dorinda ’t Hart (UWA School of Human Sciences)                                                           0423 493 099

Simone Hewett (UWA Media Manager)                                                      08 6488 3229 / 0432 637 716