@article {Aiken181, author = {Abigail R A Aiken and Dana M Johnson and Kathleen Broussard and Elisa Padron}, title = {Experiences of women in Ireland who accessed abortion by travelling abroad or by using abortion medication at home: a qualitative study}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {181--186}, year = {2018}, doi = {10.1136/bmjsrh-2018-200113}, publisher = {British Medical Journal Publishing Group}, abstract = {Background The Republic of Ireland has one of the world{\textquoteright}s most restrictive abortion laws, allowing abortion only to preserve a pregnant woman{\textquoteright}s life. We examined the impact of the law on women{\textquoteright}s options for accessing abortion, their decision-making regarding whichpathway to follow, and their experiences with their chosen approach.Methods We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 38 women who had either travelled abroad to access abortion in a clinic or had self-managed a medical abortion at home using online telemedicine, between 2010 and 2017. We coded interview transcripts according to an iteratively developed coding guide and performed a thematic analysis to identify key themes.Results We identified four key themes: (1) self-managing a medical abortion at home using online telemedicine can be a preference over travelling abroad to access abortion services; (2) regardless of the pathway chosen, women experience a lack of pre- and post-abortion support in the Irish healthcare system; (3) feelings of desperation while searching for safe abortion care can lead to considering or attempting dangerous methods; and (4) Irish abortion law and attitudes have impacts beyond physical health considerations, engendering shame and stigma.Conclusions Despite the country{\textquoteright}s restrictive abortion law, women in Ireland do obtain abortions, using methods that are legal and safe elsewhere. However, the law negatively impacts women{\textquoteright}s ability to discuss their options with their healthcare professionals and to seek follow-up care, and can have serious implications for their physical and emotional health. This study{\textquoteright}s findings provide evidence to inform public and policy discourse on Ireland{\textquoteright}s abortion laws.}, issn = {2515-1991}, URL = {https://srh.bmj.com/content/44/3/181}, eprint = {https://srh.bmj.com/content/44/3/181.full.pdf}, journal = {BMJ Sexual \& Reproductive Health} }