What reproductive coercion and abuse can look like
RCA can take many forms. Some people experience pressure to become pregnant or continue a pregnancy, while others are forced to end one or have their contraception tampered with.
These behaviours are about control, not consent.
Common examples
- Hiding, removing, or throwing away contraception
- Pressuring or threatening you to become or stay pregnant
- Preventing you from getting an abortion or forcing you to have one
- Monitoring your health records or controlling access to healthcare
- Using physical or emotional abuse to control your pregnancy decisions
- Making you feel guilty or unsafe if you use contraception
- Sabotaging condoms or removing them without consent
Pregnancy can sometimes be used as a way to maintain control. Violence or coercion can increase during pregnancy or shift in form, as the perpetrator uses pregnancy itself as a tool of power.
Warning signs to look out for
You might be experiencing reproductive coercion and abuse if:
- You are afraid to talk about contraception with your partner
- Your partner becomes angry or threatening when you discuss birth control
- You have had contraception hidden, damaged, or thrown away
- Someone tracks your period or monitors your appointments
- You have felt pressured or forced to continue or end a pregnancy
- You feel unsafe or unable to make decisions about your body
If any of these sound familiar, you are not alone. Help is available to protect your safety and your reproductive choices.
Learn about Types of Contraception →
How to Choose the Right Contraception for You →
Safe contraception options if you are experiencing control
If you are in a controlling or violent relationship, using contraception safely can be harder.
You may prefer a method that is more private or harder for someone else to detect or interfere with.
Things to consider
- Could your partner access your Medicare or prescription records?
- Do they track your period, fertility, or medical appointments?
- Have they ever hidden or damaged your contraception?
Long-acting methods such as implants, injections, or IUDs may offer more privacy and control.
If you are unsure what is safe for your situation, you can talk with a Children by Choice counsellor for free and confidential advice.
Explore Types of Contraception →
Supporting someone who may be experiencing reproductive coercion
If you think someone you know might be experiencing reproductive coercion or abuse, your support can make a difference.
How to help safely
- Choose a safe and private time to talk
- Listen without judgement and let them share at their own pace
- Avoid pressuring them to make decisions
- Let them know that what they are experiencing is not their fault
- Offer to help them contact a support service or make a call together
- Share the number for 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), available 24/7
Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is simply let them know that you care and that support is available when they are ready.
Learn how to Support Someone Experiencing RCA →
References
- 1800 RESPECT – Reproductive Coercion and Abuse
https://www.1800respect.org.au/reproductive-abuse - Queensland Government – Domestic and Family Violence Support
https://www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/domestic-family-violence
