RT Article
T1 Reproductive Autonomy in Appalachia: An Investigation into Perceived Contraceptive Pressure
JF Journal of interpersonal violence
VO 38
IS 9/10
SP 6985
OP 7011
A1 Huslage, Melody
A1 Ely, Gretchen E.
A1 Nugent, William R.
A1 Auerbach, Samantha
A1 Agbemenu, Kafuli
A2 Ely, Gretchen E.
A2 Nugent, William R.
A2 Auerbach, Samantha
A2 Agbemenu, Kafuli
LA English
YR 2023
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1841093920
AB The reproductive autonomy of persons who can give birth can be impeded through forms of interpersonal violence and coercion. Moreover, macro-level factors (e.g., poverty, discrimination, community violence, legislative policies) may impede the reproductive autonomy of entire communities. This study investigates a form of violence we term perceived contraceptive pressure in Appalachia, an understudied region of the Eastern U.S., regarding reproductive health and decision-making. Through targeted Meta advertising, participants (N = 632) residing in Appalachian zip codes completed an online survey on reproductive health. The focus of this study was to investigate the prevalence of perceived contraceptive pressure, who was at increased risk of experiencing pressure, and the source(s) of perceived pressure. Binomial regressions were conducted on three different dependent variables: perceived pressure to be sterilized, perceived pressure to use birth control, and perceived pressure not to use birth control. Approximately half of all respondents (49.5%) reported experiencing at least one type of pressure targeting contraceptive decision-making. The most prevalent source of perceived pressure to use birth control was from the healthcare provider (67.4%), and the most prevalent source of perceived pressure not to use birth control was the respondent’s partner (51.1%). Recommendations for providers serving clients in the Appalachian region include pursuing education regarding contraceptive pressure at the individual level and macro-level. In addition, Appalachian residents may benefit from educational programming on reproductive autonomy, healthy relationships, and how to navigate pressure in relationships.
K1 rural social services
K1 Reproductive justice
K1 reproductive coercion
K1 reproductive autonomy
K1 Contraception
K1 Appalachia
DO 10.1177/08862605221140035