Exploring intimate partner interference in abortion decisions among people capable of pregnancy in the U.S.: A scoping review protocol
Abstract
Background
Reproductive coercion and abuse (RCA) is a type of intimate partner violence characterized by the use of violence, threats, or manipulation to control an individual’s reproductive health decisions. A key form, abortion coercion, involves compelling an individual capable of pregnancy to have or not have an abortion or limiting their access to abortion care. Understanding intimate partner-perpetrated abortion coercion is increasingly urgent following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturnRoe v. Wade, which has reshaped reproductive rights and access.
Objective
This review aims to systematically examine the available evidence on abortion coercion in the U.S., broadly and in the context of restrictive abortion policies, to understand the prevalence, experiences, and impact of abortion coercion, identify research gaps, and propose recommendations for future research and policy.
Methods
We will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Methodology for scoping reviews and adhere to guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting of Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses—Scoping Review extension (PRISMA-ScR). Eligible studies will include original research from peer-reviewed articles and grey literature published in English between January 1, 2005 and April 1, 2025. Six databases—Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, GenderWatch, and Women’s Studies International—will be searched by a research librarian. Two independent reviewers will assess studies for eligibility; a third reviewer will resolve conflicts. Data will be extracted using a standard form and analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. Results will be presented in summary tables and visual presentations such as a heat map.
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