In Cameroon, the 2007 Penal Code (sections 337-339) stipulates that abortion is only allowed in the following cases:
If proven necessary to save the women from grave danger to her health;
When the pregnancy is the result of rape.
What are the different abortion services available in Cameroon?
Medical methods: Using abortion pills such as misoprostol alone, or the combination of mifepristone and misoprostol
Surgical methods: Using Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA)
Who can provide a safe abortion in Cameroon?
Trained medical doctors
Gynecologists and obstetricians
Midwives
Note: The doctor needs to obtain the opinion of two experts each chosen respectively from legal experts and members of the National Council of Medical Practitioners. The latter has to testify in writing that the life of the woman can only be safeguarded by means of the intervention. The protocol of consultation has to be made in 3 copies one of which will be handed to the woman and the other two to the consultant physician and legal expert. Besides, a protocol of the taken decision will be sent by registered mail to the chairperson of the National Council of Medical Practitioners
Where can I go for abortion services in Cameroon?
Legal abortions can be performed at registered public and private health facilities.
What is the cost of a safe abortion in Cameroon?
In Cameroon, a medical abortion costs between 10,000 FCFA and 25,000 FCFA, while a surgical abortion costs between 20,000 FCFA and 40,000 FCFA.
What abortion pills are available in Cameroon?
Misoprostol only pills under the brand names Cytotec and Misofem
Misoprostol and Mifepristone combi-packs under the brand names Mifepack and Mifeso
What do the abortion pills look like in Cameroon?
Miso-fem
Mifepack
Misodia
Mifedia
Mifeso
Where can I buy abortion pills in Cameroon?
Misoprostol can be bought from pharmacies; however, an accompanying prescription may be required.
What post-abortion care services are available in Cameroon?
Contraceptives services, counseling, treatment for incomplete abortions, prevention and treatment of STIs are the post-abortion services that are available in Cameroon. These are available in private and public health centres and hospitals.
Who can I contact for additional abortion information and support in Cameroon?
“Women’s experiences of the abortion law in Cameroon: What really matters.” Reproductive Health Matters, Taylor & Francis Online . https://doi.org/10.1016/S0968-8080(10)35503-0