The Abortion and Sterilization Act in 1975--experience of the Johannesburg Hospital Pregnancy Advisory Clinic.

The experience of a Pregnancy Advisory Service operating in terms of the Abortion and Sterilization Act of 1975 is reviewed. A total of 454 applications for abortion were considered, of which 198 (44%) were accepted and the abortions performed. The urgent need for sex education at schools, colleges and universities is stressed, in view of the large number of scholars and students under the age of 17 who seek an abortion. There are also patients who discontinue contraception for a variety of reasons, on medical advice or otherwise, without an alternative being suggested or sought. Motivation of patient, nurse and doctor needs urgent improvement.