Abortion is termination of pregnancy, whether spontaneous or induced. Induced abortion
is caused intentionally by the administration of drugs or by mechanical means whereas
illegal abortion is an induced abortion performed contrary to the laws regulating abortion
in that country. Abortion is legally permitted in Sri Lanka, only if it is performed to save
the mother’s life. Although Sri Lanka has a very restrictive law on abortion, it is estimated
that 125,000 to 175,000 induced abortions take place annually. In the year 2014, the
contribution of abortion to maternal mortality was 12.5 percent, making it the third most
common cause of maternal deaths. Knowledge and attitudes towards induced abortion in
the society can influence not only individual decision-making on the outcome of unwanted
pregnancies, but also the health sector policy response towards future changes in the law.
This study aims to understand the knowledge and attitudes of adults towards induced
abortion and abortion law in Sri Lanka. Further, it aims to analyze factors associated with
knowledge and attitudes on abortion.