MGHD 2023

Background Access to safe and legal abortion services is crucial for women's reproductive health and rights. The perception and attitude of healthcare providers play a significant role in the provision of abortion care. However, there is limited research on healthcare providers' perception and attitude following the revision of the abortion law in Rwanda in 2018. Understanding their perceptions and attitudes is essential for improving the quality and accessibility of abortion services. Methods This descriptive phenomenological qualitative research study was conducted in Kirehe District Hospital, Rwanda. Nineteen In-depth interviews were conducted with healthcare providers working in the gynecology and obstetrics ward. Thematic analysis using Dedoose was conducted to identify key themes and sub-themes related to healthcare providers' perceptions and attitudes towards the revised abortion law. Results Nineteen healthcare providers participated in the interviews. The study findings brought to light the significant influence of personal beliefs and interpersonal relationships among these providers, as well as their interactions with the community in shaping their perception and attitude towards the safe abortion law. These factors impacted their perception and attitude towards the law, subsequently affecting the implementation of the safe abortion law within the health facility. Conclusion The study sheds light on the diverse perceptions and attitudes of healthcare providers towards the revised safe abortion law. Factors such as personal beliefs, religious considerations, and interpretations of women's rights influence their stance on the law and its implementation. These findings highlight the importance of addressing these varying perspectives to ensure effective service delivery.