Reproductive coercion: An under-recognized challenge for primary care patients

Sharon J. Phillips, Ariana H. Bennett, Michele R. Hacker, Marji Gold

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Reproductive coercion impacts many women of reproductive age. Objectives: We sought to explore how reproductive coercion, including pregnancy coercion and birth control sabotage, impacts women in a primary care population. Methods: We administered a survey to women accessing care at a family medicine clinic in the Bronx, NY. Reproductive coercion was defined as a positive response to at least one of five questions adapted from previous studies. We assessed the association of reproductive and demographic characteristics with a lifetime history of reproductive coercion. Results: At least one form of reproductive coercion was reported by 24% of the 97 respondents. Current lack of personal safety and a history of transactional sex for money or a place to stay were significantly associated with having experienced reproductive coercion (all P ≤ 0.02). Conclusions: Reproductive coercion was common among women of reproductive age at this urban family medicine clinic in an underserved community, and was associated with other forms of control and violence. Clinicians are advised to discuss birth control sabotage and pregnancy coercion with their patients.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)286-289
Number of pages4
JournalFamily Practice
Volume33
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1 2016

Keywords

  • Birth control sabotage
  • Contraception
  • Patients
  • Reproductive coercion
  • Underserved
  • Violence
  • Women

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Family Practice

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