Navigating reproductive autonomy in the context of intimate partner violence: Perspectives of survivors and service providers

Abstract

This dissertation comprises three articles examining the ways in which women in intimate partner violence (IPV) relationships navigate decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health (SRH), with a focus on informing SRH services within IPV agencies. The first article presents findings from a qualitative interpretive meta-synthesis (QIMS) of existing literature, exploring the reproductive decision-making processes of women experiencing abuse. The subsequent articles report on empirical studies exploring the responsiveness of IPV service agencies in assessing the SRH needs of their clients. Utilizing individual interviews and focus groups, both survivors and service providers contribute insights into their experiences with SRH discussions, identify barriers to screening within current agency protocols, and propose recommendations for the formation of a comprehensive SRH assessment framework aimed at facilitating these conversations.