Home abortion - experiences of male involvement

To gain knowledge about the male partner's experience of being present during an induced home abortion.

Twenty-three couples, whose male partner had been present when the woman aborted at home, were interviewed one to two weeks post-abortion.

Each of the men supported his partner in her decision to have a home abortion, as this gave him the possibility of being near and of caring for her needs on the expulsion day. All the men were present and all their partners confirmed that they had been supportive. Half the men had been anxious prior to the expulsion, but most considered that their experiences during the expulsion had been 'easier than expected' and their dominant feeling was one of relief.

Abortion is an important life event. When taking place at home, it increases the possibility for the couple to share the experience. Sharing an abortion may have a positive impact on those men who lack a sense of responsibility regarding reproductive issues, such as contraceptive use. This could facilitate society's efforts to involve men as a target group in this field. Designing an abortion policy that caters for the needs of both partners is a challenge.