Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Induced abortion is the main cause of maternal death in Brazil. Question of its legalization has been the subject of frequent discussion.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

In order to assess the influence of the variables affecting the opinion of women of reproductive age, a population-based systematic sample in the county of Rio Grande (Southern Brazil) was examined.

RESULTS:

Of a total of 1,456 interviews 30% endorsed the legalization, whatever the circumstances; this percentage was directly associated with age, schooling, family income and previous induced abortion (p < 0.01). Adjusted analysis using logistic regression showed a significant effect of schooling and previous induced abortion on favourable opinion.

CONCLUSION:

Schooling and previous induced abortion were the main determinants of women's favorable opinions regarding abortion legalization.