A Data Point We Rarely Discuss: Pregnancy Termination in Pakistan

Using the latest insights from the Gallup Pakistan Digital Analytics dashboard using DHS data , an important and often overlooked aspect of maternal health emerges.

Across Pakistan, 33.4% of women report that they have ever had a terminated pregnancy.

This figure reflects a complex mix of realities — including miscarriages, stillbirths, and induced abortions — and highlights the broader challenges surrounding maternal health, reproductive care, and access to medical services.
When we look across provinces, the variation is notable:
Punjab: 37%
Islamabad Capital Territory: 35%
Sindh: 30%
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 30%
Balochistan: 23%
Former FATA: 22%
Interestingly, the data also shows almost no difference between rural and urban Pakistan, with both reporting around 33%.
What does this tell us?
First, pregnancy loss and termination are far more common experiences than public discussion suggests. Yet the topic remains largely invisible in policy conversations.
Second, the similarity between rural and urban areas suggests that this is not simply a question of access to services, but also reflects underlying health risks, fertility patterns, and maternal care systems across the country.
Pakistan continues to have one of the highest fertility rates in the region, and women experience multiple pregnancies across their reproductive years. Naturally, this increases the probability that many will experience a terminated pregnancy at least once in their lifetime.
For policymakers and health professionals, the takeaway is clear:
Maternal health conversations must go beyond births alone and include the full reproductive journey — including pregnancy loss, miscarriage, and safe medical care.
Better data, awareness, and support systems can help ensure that women facing these experiences receive the care and dignity they deserve.

Source: Gallup Pakistan Digital Analytics Dashboard (district-level maternal health indicators)