Women’s Experiences Seeking Health Care in the Context of Reproductive Coercion and Abuse

Reproductive coercion and abuse (RCA) is a form of violence against women where physical, psychological, sexual, or coercive behaviors are used to control women’s reproductive choices. This study aimed to understand women’s experiences and expectations with health professionals after experiencing RCA. Using qualitative methodology, 20 women who had experiences of RCA were interviewed. Three themes were developed that captured women’s experiences: Everyone was looking at me with “those” eyes; Recognize that something is not right; and Empower me to make my own choices. This study highlights how women’s perceptions of judgment from health professionals deeply impacts their experience of RCA.