English Title

Abstract

Family planning and the legality of abortion are subjects that generate many debates within society. The positions we assume about these issues are related to our religious beliefs, ethics, culture, history and to the development and implementation of public policy. Puerto Rican society has not study family planning and abortion issues enough. The aim of this study is to explore the knowledge, attitudes and opinions of the Puerto Rican society towards family planning and the policy of United States that required all international non-governmental organizations refrain from performing or promoting abortion services as a method of family planning (México City Policy - MCP). We carried out a mixed-method study with two phases: we conducted a first phase using a qualitative approach with an exploratory design; and a second phase using a quantitative approach with a correlational design. We conducted the study with a convenience sample of 106 adults who reside in Puerto Rico. The findings suggest that neither knowledge nor socio-demographic characteristics are related to the participant's attitude towards family planning, except religious ideology. The findings reflect inconsistencies between knowledge on family planning and the derogation of MCP, and the attitudes towards them. As well, as the literature suggest, the results of the study demonstrate poor knowledge and confusión about the legality of abortion in Puerto Rico.