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Frequency and Risk Factors of Reproductive Coercion Among Pregnant Individuals: A Cross-Sectional Study
Emily Newton-Hoe1,2, Elizabeth Janiak1,2, Sarah Johns1,2
1Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Women'S Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.)
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Reproductive coercion (RC) affects 7.3% of pregnant individuals, often involving contraceptive interference. Those experiencing RC were more likely to have disabilities and unintended pregnancies, highlighting intervention needs.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Intimate Partner Violence
- Public Health
Background:
- Reproductive coercion (RC) undermines reproductive autonomy and choices.
- Pregnancy is a critical period with unique risks and healthcare engagement opportunities for RC survivors.
- Limited data exist on RC frequency and risk factors among pregnant individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the correlates, frequency, and predictors of past reproductive coercion.
- To investigate RC prevalence in a cohort of pregnant individuals receiving prenatal care.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey conducted between February 2022 and September 2023.
- Participants included pregnant individuals aged 18-49 receiving prenatal care at two academic medical centers in Boston, MA.
- 1340 individuals completed the survey.
Main Results:
- 7.3% of respondents (N=76) experienced RC within the past 3 years.
- The most common RC form was partner interference with contraception (3.2%).
- Individuals reporting RC were more likely to have disabilities (15.1% vs. 7.5%) and fair/poor health (14.5% vs. 7.2%).
- Past RC was associated with significantly higher odds of mistimed or unwanted pregnancies (aOR=4.30).
Conclusions:
- Reproductive coercion is prevalent among pregnant individuals.
- Disparities in RC experiences highlight the need for targeted interventions.
- Addressing RC during pregnancy can prevent recurrence and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
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