Assessing and understanding reproductive coercion against women: An explorative study among health professionals in Belgium

Résumé 0

An emerging and novel concept, reproductive coercion (RC) involves behaviors that interfere with a person’s reproductive autonomy, in order to maintain control over it. It manifests itself through pregnancy-related pressure, contraceptive sabotage, and coercion regarding the outcome of pregnancy, and is thought to impact the reproductive, sexual, psychological, and relational health of the victim. The objective of this research is to evaluate the knowledge of health professionals concerning RC in Belgium through a qualitative analysis. This analysis is based on semi-structured interviews among health professionals (n = 10). Thematic analysis of the results reveals that health professionals do encounter RC in their consultations. Indeed, they are often confronted with manifestations and the consequences of RC in their work. Although they seem to be aware of the phenomenon, they are unable to define these behaviors. Therefore, it appears essential to raise awareness and train professionals with regard to RC. It also seems important to develop screening tools for RC, in order to support professionals in the management of this phenomenon.