Abortion in Armenia

Overview of abortion laws and practices in Armenia

Abortion in Armenia is a legal medical procedure that has been subject to various regulations and societal attitudes over the years. This article provides an overview of the legal framework, historical context, and current practices regarding abortion in Armenia.

Legal Framework

Abortion in Armenia is legal on request up to the 12th week of pregnancy. Beyond this period, abortions are permitted under specific circumstances, such as when the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman's health, in cases of fetal impairment, or when the pregnancy is a result of rape. The legal basis for abortion in Armenia is established under the Law on Reproductive Health and Reproductive Rights, which was enacted in 2002.

Regulations

The law requires that abortions be performed by licensed medical practitioners in authorized medical facilities. Women seeking an abortion must undergo a mandatory counseling session, which aims to inform them about the procedure and its potential risks. Additionally, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period after the counseling session before the procedure can be carried out.

Historical Context

During the Soviet era, abortion was widely used as a method of birth control due to limited access to contraceptives. After Armenia gained independence in 1991, the country maintained liberal abortion laws, although there have been efforts to promote family planning and reduce the reliance on abortion as a primary means of contraception.

Current Practices

In recent years, Armenia has faced challenges related to sex-selective abortions, which have contributed to a skewed gender ratio. The government has implemented measures to address this issue, including public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of existing laws.

Public Opinion and Societal Attitudes

Public opinion on abortion in Armenia is influenced by cultural, religious, and social factors. The Armenian Apostolic Church, which plays a significant role in Armenian society, generally opposes abortion, advocating for the protection of unborn life. However, there is also a recognition of women's rights to make decisions about their own bodies.

Healthcare and Access

Access to safe and legal abortion services is generally available in urban areas, but women in rural regions may face challenges due to limited healthcare infrastructure. Efforts are ongoing to improve access to reproductive health services across the country.

Also see

• Reproductive rights in Armenia
• Healthcare in Armenia
• Women's rights in Armenia
• Demographics of Armenia