Research & Sources
Motivations for Abortion or Continuation of an Unwanted Pregnancy: A Scoping Review of the Global Literature
Beumer et al. • Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health • 2025
A 2025 scoping review of 19 peer-reviewed studies found that pregnancy decisions are often shaped by multiple, interconnected factors, including finances, housing, work or education, partner relationships, existing children, future plans, social pressure, and personal beliefs.
Understanding Why Women Seek Abortions in the US
Biggs, Gould & Foster • BMC Women’s Health • 2013
In a U.S. study of 954 women seeking abortion, commonly reported themes included financial reasons, timing, partner-related circumstances, and the need to focus on children already at home. Most participants reported more than one reason.
“I Would Want to Give My Child, Like, Everything in the World”: How Issues of Motherhood Influence Women Who Have Abortions
Jones, Frohwirth & Moore • Journal of Family Issues • 2008
Qualitative interviews found that existing children, financial security, family stability, and the desire to provide children with a good home and sufficient care influenced pregnancy decisions among participants.
Reasons U.S. Women Have Abortions: Quantitative and Qualitative Perspectives
Finer et al. • Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health • 2005
Among 1,209 U.S. abortion patients surveyed, frequently reported reasons included interference with education, work, or caring for dependents; financial limitations; and relationship or single-parenting concerns.