From concept to measurement: operationalizing WHO’s definition of unsafe abortion

摘要

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines unsafe abortion as a procedure for terminating a pregnancy performed by persons lacking the necessary skills or in an environment not in conformity with minimal medical st andards, or both. This definition embodies concepts first outlined in a 1992 WHO Technical Con- sultation. 1 Although widely used, it is inconsistently interpreted. In this editorial we discuss its correct interpretation and operat ionalization.