[Increase of repeat abortion in France: from contraceptive issues to postponement of childbearing age]

Abstract

Background: The number of women resorting to abortion several times has increase continuously in France since 1975, similar to the situation in many countries where contraception is widely available and used. The analysis of time trends in so-called "repeat" abortion across social, demographic and contraceptive characteristics can be helpful in capturing the social meaning of this practice and informing policies for sexual and reproductive health.

Methods: The present analysis was based on statistical reports of abortions performed in France from 1990 to 2007 and on data from the National Survey of Abortion Patients, a representative sample of 7067 women undergoing an abortion in France. Chi(2) and logistic regression models were used for the statistical analysis.

Results: Increase in "repeated" abortion was seen across all groups of the population but was greater in women under 30, women who live alone and students. Women presenting for a second abortion were more likely to report the pregnancy followed a contraceptive failure than women presenting for an abortion for the first time.

Conclusion: The trend for an increasing use of multiple abortions over time occurs primarily because of longer time between first intercourse and first child. Having several abortions is an expression of the difficulties women have in managing daily contraceptive use in the context of more diversified emotional and sexual trajectories.

Keywords: Avortement répété; Contraception; Repeat abortion; Santé sexuelle et reproductive; Sexual and reproductive health.