A new Afrobarometer survey has revealed strong public support in S\u00e3o Tom\u00e9 and Pr\u00edncipe for women\u2019s reproductive autonomy, sexuality education in schools, and wider access to contraceptives.<\/p>\n
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The findings come amid ongoing concerns over high adolescent pregnancy rates and limited access to reproductive health services in the island nation.<\/p>\n
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According to the survey, 88% of respondents said women and girls should decide for themselves whether and when to marry, while 85% said women should independently decide when and how many children to have.<\/p>\n
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Support was particularly strong among women, with 91% backing women\u2019s autonomy in marriage decisions compared to 86% of men.<\/p>\n
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The survey also showed broad backing for sexuality education and continued schooling for pregnant learners. Nearly nine in 10 respondents (88%) supported sexuality education in schools, while 84% agreed that girls who become pregnant or have children should be allowed to continue their education.<\/p>\n
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On access to contraceptives, 81% said contraceptives should be available to anyone who is sexually active regardless of marital status, while 73% supported access regardless of age.<\/p>\n
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Afrobarometer noted that support for contraception access was generally higher among younger and more educated respondents.<\/p>\n
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The survey further found growing acceptance of abortion in certain circumstances. About 77% of respondents said terminating a pregnancy could be justified if the woman\u2019s life or health was at risk, while 69% supported abortion in cases of rape or incest.<\/p>\n
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Slim majorities also said abortion could be justified if a woman was unable to care for a child due to economic hardship (57%) or if the pregnancy was unwanted for any reason (57%).<\/p>\n
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Researchers said the findings reflect increasingly progressive public attitudes toward sexual and reproductive health and rights in S\u00e3o Tom\u00e9 and Pr\u00edncipe, despite persistent social and healthcare challenges.<\/p>\n
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