Men's reactions to their partners' elective abortions

Sixty men who accompanied their wives or girlfriends when the latter came for elective abortions were surveyed to explore, broadly, men's experience of abortion. Portions of the survey relevant to health care revealed that most men felt involved in the abortion experience. They initially wished to play an active, but circumscribed, role in matters related to abortion; they wanted to accompany their partners in order to be supportive and considered themselves responsible, along with their partners, for preventing unwanted pregnancies and choosing abortion. In contrast, there was initially a lack of interest in participation in clinic functions or learning about abortion and contraception despite inadequate knowledge. However, as information and comfort with the setting were gained, it became apparent that greater responsiveness was there to be tapped. Permitting men increased participation in abortion services, both educational and psychological, is discussed as advantageous.