Predictors of intimate partner violence in women seeking medication abortion

Background: High rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) have been reported among women seeking surgical abortion. Women seeking medication abortion differ from surgical abortion patients on many measures. The rate of IPV among medication abortion patients is unknown.

Study design: The Modified Abuse Assessment Questionnaire was administered to 1128 women at enrollment into a prospective, multicenter medication abortion trial.

Results: Twenty-three percent of subjects reported ever experiencing IPV. Women reporting IPV were significantly more likely to be white and less likely to be married. They were more likely to have had previous spontaneous and induced abortions, and were more likely to incorrectly estimate their gestational age (GA).

Conclusion: The rate of IPV in this study was similar to the background US rate. Few demographic variables are predictive of IPV among women seeking medication abortion. Gynecologic variables associated with IPV are consistent with less control over reproductive health.