Abortion in the Marshall Islands is only legal if the abortion will save the pregnant woman's life.[1] In the Marshall Islands, even if physicians determine an abortion is life-saving for the woman, she must receive consent from her spouse, undergo counseling, and she must sign a form consenting to use family planning services after the medical procedure.[1] Before any treatment related to reproductive health, minors need consent from a parent or guardian.[2]
Out of the 24 inhabited atolls, only 2 (Majuro and Kwajalein) have facilities providing information about pre and postnatal care, contraception, and skilled delivery assistance.[2] Because abortions are not readily available as an elective procedure, some women attempt to carry out a self-induced abortion (through local or traditional methods) or have someone punch them in the stomach. [3]
