How do Characteristics of the Couple’s Relationship Influence the Choice of Induced Abortion?

Lisbeth B. Knudsen, Aalborg University
Vibeke Rasch, University of Copenhagen
Tine Gammeltoft, University of Copenhagen

The aim of this paper is to focus on the choice between abortion and giving birth if pregnant and to analyse how various characteristics of the relation between the woman and her male partner (duration of the relation, the quality and the anticipated stability), influence the choice of induced abortion over birth in Denmark. The present analysis will use data from questionaires completed in the hospitals (Sept. 2002 – May 2003) and compare women who chose abortion with women who chose to give birth. The preliminary analysis indicate for each of the characteristics of the relationship: duration, quality and the anticipated stability in the next decade, an association as expected: Women in good relationships, who expect a future with their partner are less prone to choose induced abortion over birth. However, some of these associations were modifyed by controlling for the woman’s age and the number of childen already born.