Abortion Laws in Benin

Like other countries in the West African sub-region, Benin legally authorizes abortion under certain circumstances. The abortion pills can be purchased from pharmacies with a prescription, and surgical abortions are also available. The abortion pill generally costs between XOF 700 and XOF 4000.

Is abortion legal in Benin?

Benin has adopted and ratified the Maputo Protocol, which, through Article 14 on the Rights of Women in Africa, authorizes abortion in specific circumstances listed as follows:

  • When the pregnancy is the result of rape or an incestuous relationship;
  • When the continuation of the pregnancy endangers the life and health of the pregnant woman; and
  • At the request of the woman when the fetus is a carrier of a serious defect.

However, post-abortion care services are legal, though implementation and access remains mired by challenges.

What are the different post-abortion care services available in Benin?

The two types of post-abortion care services available in Benin are classified as:

  • Medical methods: Using pills, such as Misoprostol (Misofem, Avertiso); and
  • Surgical methods: Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA).

Who can provide post-abortion care services in Benin?

Legal abortion services can be performed by a gynecologist, general practitioner, or midwife. The overall cost of care is between 7,100 XOF and 10,100 XOF, with contraceptive method coverage at ABPF clinics. The cost of abortion pills varies from 700 XOF to 4,000 XOF at pharmacies. Untrained providers can often do more harm than good. In addition, religious, social, and provider stigma discourages many women from using these services.

Where can I go for post-abortion care services in Benin?

Post-abortion care services can be accessed at both government and private health facilities.

What abortion pills are available in Benin?

The two abortion pills that are available in Benin are:

  • Misoprostol, which is available under the brand names Miso-Fem, Cytotec, ACE-Miso, and Avertiso.
  • Mifepristone, which, in association with Misoprostol, is available under the brand name Mifepack.

Where can I buy abortion pills in Benin?

Misoprostol is available at pharmacies; however, it cannot be sold without a prescription.

Note:

Some pharmacists might sell the abortion pills without a prescription. However, they do not often provide proper instructions on eligibility, dosage, and usage. Please refer to the following page on our website for comprehensive instructions on how to use the pill: https://howtouseabortionpill.org/howto/

What do abortion pills look like in Benin?

Who can I contact for additional abortion information and support in Benin?

The following organizations may be able to provide safe abortion information and support in Benin:

Source

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