The Morals of the Ibo Ethnic Group and the Abortion Deaths Among their Maidens in Nigeria

Abstract

Among the Ibo or Igbo ethnic group in Nigeria, a “daughter’s chastity” is highly valued. Little wonder that maidens could be tempted to commit abortion to conceal the illegitimate pregnancy. These abortions may have led to the sudden death in 3 cases presented here, in which microscopy revealed chorionic villi in the womb. This is comparable to other published cases of death in pregnancy. The future is important with reference to prevention practices.