A recent English study found that more than one in three women seeking abortion had experienced lifetime domestic violence. In the previous year, 19.5% had been physically assaulted and 3.7% had had forced sexual intercourse. A link was also found between domestic violence and women seeking repeat abortions. 30% of women having a second abortion reported relationship violence and women having a third or subsequent abortion were over 2.5 times as likely to report a history of physical or sexual abuse by a male partner.”These findings highlight the need for health professionals to be aware of, and sensitive to, the possibility of violence in the lives of women seeking abortion. Our society should have zero tolerance for domestic violence.”

Aston G, Bewley S. Abortion and domestic violence. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2009;11:163–8