

Turns out, denying a woman the right to terminate an unwanted pregnancy could pave the way for some serious consequences (besides, you know, taking away her legally-given right, and forcing her to bear a child against her will.) A new study from the University of California, San Francisco has revealed that women who have been denied an abortion are more likely to be victims of domestic abuse, and are less likely to to be able to escape an abusive relationship.
Violence in relationships is already a common occurrence among women receiving abortions: Up to 22 percent of these females shared reports of assault in their relationships with researchers. For a woman in an abusive relationship who was also able to receive an abortion, her chance of escaping was also greater. Keep in mind, too, that if a woman is forced to carry her pregnancy to term alongside her abusive partner, that child will be born into a home wrought with emotional and physical threats.
The timing of this study's findings couldn't be more poignant, as domestic violence and strict abortion regulations have become increasingly more debated. It seems that before both issues were separate, but perhaps they're more closely linked than people thought.
Related:
How I Saved Myself from an Abusive Boyfriend
Texas Judge Blocks Part of Controversial Abortion Law
Photo via Getty Images
Diana is a producer at ELLE.com. She previously wrote for MarieClaire.com. Diana is a Syracuse grad and a Chicago native, and therefore a pro at dealing with cold weather. She's also an Anglophile, which means she love all things British—especially Downton Abbey, London, and Will and Kate (and Prince George!)
-
Worth It: Loewe's Gradient Puzzle Bag
The signature puzzle-piece purse has three new colors.
By Sara Holzman
-
How to Make Your Bikini Wax Less Painful, According to Experts
It all starts with preparation.
By Samantha Holender
-
Miley Cyrus, Millennial, Shows Side Parts Can Still Be Cool With Hair Transformation
No! Beauty! Rules!
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
30 Ways Women Still Aren't Equal to Men
If anyone tries to tell you otherwise, show them these statistics.
By Megan Friedman
-
The Supreme Court Is Hearing Arguments in a Case That Could Overturn 'Roe v. Wade'
'Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization' is the most consequential abortion rights case in decades.
By Rachel Epstein
-
EMILY's List President Laphonza Butler Has Big Plans for the Organization
Under Butler's leadership, the largest resource for women in politics aims to expand Black political power and become more accessible for candidates across the nation.
By Rachel Epstein
-
Want to Fight for Abortion Rights in Texas? Raise Your Voice to State Legislators
Emily Cain, executive director of EMILY's List and and former Minority Leader in Maine, says that to stop the assault on reproductive rights, we need to start demanding more from our state legislatures.
By Emily Cain
-
Your Abortion Questions, Answered
Here, MC debunks common abortion myths you may be increasingly hearing since Texas' near-total abortion ban went into effect.
By Rachel Epstein
-
Trump Vows to Appoint Pro-Life Judge to Supreme Court
In a new interview with 60 Minutes, the President Elect confirms his stance on Roe v. Wade.
By Sally Holmes
-
The Future of Afghan Women and Girls Depends on What We Do Next
Between the U.S. occupation and the Taliban, supporting resettlement for Afghan women and vulnerable individuals is long overdue.
By Rona Akbari
-
How to Help Afghanistan Refugees and Those Who Need Aid
With the situation rapidly evolving, organizations are desperate for help.
By Katherine J Igoe