An investigation into the motives of women seeking therapeutic abortion in Newfoundland

Krishnamoni, Devaki (1979) An investigation into the motives of women seeking therapeutic abortion in Newfoundland. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the motives of women seeking therapeutic abortion in Newfoundland. -- The information for the study was collected through personal interviews with all applicants requesting termination of pregnancy between January 15 through March 1, 1979 till the target number, seventy-five cases, was reached. A structured questionnaire was administered to this sample consisting of all age groups among women of child-bearing age and both never-married and once-married women. -- A review of the literature on abortion revealed that the reasons for requesting termination differ between single and married women. In addition to age and socio-economic factors, the relationship with the partner is decisive for the outcome of the pregnancy for the former group, while poor health, financial problems, being past the child-bearing age, etc. are common reasons for the latter group. -- The central proposition stated that the reasons given by a woman for terminating her pregnancy will be closely related to her age, marital status, relationship with the sex partner and other socio-economic factors. -- An analysis of the findings supported the central proposition although statistical significance was not reached. -- The general conclusion arrived at was that termination of pregnancy is a highly personal decision and usually consists of a variety of complex factors. It was also noted that marriage for the sake of legitimising the pregnancy is being rejected as a viable solution by many. Single young women, in particular, place emphasis on being older and more mature to cope with motherhood and its responsibilities, as well as on financial security. Among married and older women, breakdown in marriage, ill health and being past the child-bearing age are the frequent reasons given. -- These findings are relevant to social workers and other personnel who work with abortion clinics, family planning centres, etc., in that they provide some measure of understanding of the population that seeks this service, so that appropriate counselling may be provided. Statistics indicate an upward trend in the incidence of abortions drawing attention to the need for competent contraceptive knowledge. Further research is, therefore, required to explore the contraceptive practices of this population for the purpose of providing preventive treatment, particularly to high-risk groups.

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