The study aimed to analyze the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and repeat-induced abortion, concerning the potential effects of social deprivation and intimate partner violence.
An observational cross-sectional survey was conducted across each of the 25 abortion centers in Aquitaine, France, from 15 June to 15 September 2009. The sample comprised 806 women >18 years who had requested an induced abortion. Data were collected through a self-reported anonymous questionnaire on ACEs and experience of previous abortion. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of repeat-induced abortions.
Among the participants, 473 had their first induced abortion, and 333 had a previous induced abortion. The abortion rank was inversely related to women with no ACE exposure and positively associated with high ACE exposure. Compared with women with no ACE exposure who were having a first induced abortion, in those with high ACE exposure, the odds of a third or more request for an abortion was high: adjusted odds ratio 7.73.
We found a robust graded link between the extent of ACE exposure and the occurrence of repeat-induced abortion.
Reference: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13625187.2020.1815697
