Caring for Women Experiencing Reproductive Coercion

J Midwifery Womens Health. 2016 Jan-Feb;61(1):112-5. doi: 10.1111/jmwh.12369. Epub 2016 Jan 13.

Abstract

Reproductive coercion is behavior that interferes with a woman's decision making regarding reproductive health. It may consist of contraception sabotage and/or pressure to either carry a pregnancy to term or to have an abortion. Reproductive coercion may coexist with intimate partner violence and be associated with higher rates of unintended pregnancy. Midwives and other women's health care providers can play an integral role in identifying reproductive coercion and implementing harm-reduction strategies.

Keywords: Contraception; domestic violence; intimate partner violence; pregnancy; pregnancy, unwanted; reproductive coercion; sexual violence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Induced*
  • Coercion*
  • Contraception*
  • Decision Making*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intimate Partner Violence*
  • Nurse Midwives
  • Personal Autonomy*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy, Unwanted*
  • Reproduction
  • Sexual Partners
  • Social Work