15 million unwanted pregnancies annually due to fear of contraceptives: study

Women the world over endure unwanted pregnancies in their millions each year, according to a report.

This is because they are fearful of modern contraceptives.

The Daily Mail reports that 40% of women who avoid contraception do so because of their worry about the side effects and health implications of methods such as the Pill, coils and condoms; while nearly 20% avoid protection because they vastly underestimated the risk of pregnancy.

According to a study conducted by World Health Organisation (WHO), this results in 15 million unwanted pregnancies worldwide each year.

Thirty five low and middle income countries were analysed, finding that 15 million out of 16.7 million unwanted pregnancies a year could easily be avoided.

The researchers also warned that lack of proper contraception can result in unwanted abortions.