Related Experiment Videos
Exploring Canadian Women's Multiple Abortion Experiences: Implications for Reducing Stigma and Improving
Kathryn J LaRoche1, Angel M Foster2
1Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Women having multiple abortions often feel shame and stigma, despite confidence in their decisions. Reframing the narrative around subsequent abortions is crucial for reducing societal judgment and improving healthcare support.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Sociology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Subsequent abortions constitute approximately one-third of all abortions in Canada.
- Limited research explores women's lived experiences and perspectives on multiple abortions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand how women discuss and perceive their experiences with multiple abortions.
- To explore the decision-making factors influencing women who have undergone several abortions.
Main Methods:
- In-depth interviews were conducted with 41 Canadian women between 2012 and 2016.
- Interviews covered 87 abortions within the five years preceding data collection.
- Data analysis involved multiphased iterative, inductive, and deductive thematic analysis.
Main Results:
- Women viewed each abortion as a unique event, influenced by diverse factors like relationships, support, finances, health, and desire to parent.
- Prior abortions demystified the procedure but did not significantly impact subsequent decisions.
- Participants reported heightened shame and stigma but expressed confidence in their choices.
Conclusions:
- The term "repeat abortion" inadequately represents women's complex experiences and decision-making processes.
- Reframing the discourse on multiple abortions, particularly among healthcare providers, can mitigate stigma.
- Addressing the amplified stigma associated with multiple abortions is essential for supportive care.