Determinants of unwanted pregnancy and abortion in Beijing, China

Abstract

In the past two decades, despite an increase in the contraceptive prevalence rate over 90 per cent, the rate of induced abortions in China has also increased. Based on interviews with women from Beijing undergoing induced abortions and their partners, this study examines the reasons why. It finds that lack of knowledge of how to use methods correctly and/or the choice of lower efficacy methods were responsible for many pregnancies. Another key factor was the contradiction between men’s refusal to take responsibility for contraception, at the same time as they demanded the fulfillment of their sexual desires. The paper discusses the Chinese Family Planning Programme’s failure to prioritise informed choice and male responsibility, and argues that women too have a responsibility to take care of themselves, and to stop subjecting themselves to unwanted pregnancies and repeated abortions.