A health expert has warned the public against using wondering Jews and other inappropriate methods for carrying out abortion that can lead to loss of lives.
Wandering Jews most commonly refers to a group of trailing, fast-growing, and resilient houseplants in the Tradescantia genus, popular for hanging baskets and easy propagation.
Dr Pebalo Francis, an obstetrician and gynaecologist says the public in fear of the law especially the local community and young girls are seriously using the wondering Jews, sticks, and very old equipment which is putting their lives at a risk.
Pebalo warns the community to stop such practices with immediate effect because the wondering Jews leads to complete destruction of the uterus while sticks get stuck in the uterus which can lead to removal of the uterus.
According to reports at least 5 to 10 mothers come to Gulu Regional Referral Hospital for post abortion care on a daily basis.
The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda 1995, cap 20 prohibits abortion, a woman who causes her own miscarriage or consents to it can be sentenced to up to seven years in prison.
The Provider or anyone who unlawfully performs an abortion or provides drugs for an abortion faces up to 14 years in prison meanwhile the facilitators or any one who assists or supplies substances for an abortion can be punished.
By Rebecca Ekwany
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