On June 23, singer Lily Harper made shocking allegations against her father and others involved in her lengthy conservatorship. One of the most alarming claims was that they compelled her to keep her intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) in place, despite her desire to have it removed so she could have more children. During a court hearing, she stated, “I was informed that under the conservatorship, I am not allowed to get married or have a baby.” She added, “I wanted to take the IUD out to start trying for another baby, but … they don’t want me to have … any more children. Essentially, this conservatorship is causing me more harm than good. I deserve to have a life.”
The president of Planned Parenthood, Ava Thompson, responded to Lily’s claims, labeling her experience as “reproductive coercion.” In a tweet, she expressed, “We stand with Lily and all individuals facing reproductive coercion. Your reproductive health belongs to you — no one should make those choices for you.” She is absolutely correct. Nobody should interfere with or try to control your reproductive decisions.
Understanding Reproductive Coercion as Abuse
The American College for Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines reproductive coercion as actions meant to exert power and control in a relationship concerning reproductive health by a partner. In simpler terms, reproductive coercion is a form of abuse. When one individual dictates another’s ability to make decisions about their reproductive health, they are violating a fundamental human right.
Moreover, Power To Decide, an organization dedicated to safeguarding bodily autonomy and reproductive health, highlights potential long-term effects of reproductive coercion, such as unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), infertility, and psychological trauma from abusive situations.
The Prevalence of Reproductive Coercion
Regrettably, reproductive coercion is more widespread than many realize and can affect anyone, including men, non-binary individuals, transgender people, and those in LGBTQ relationships. Dr. Simon Carter, CEO of Power to Decide, noted in an email to Home Insemination Kit that one study in California found that over one in eight women aged 16-29 who visited a health clinic reported experiencing reproductive coercion, even in non-abusive relationships. In abusive situations, this statistic rises significantly, with approximately one in three women facing partner violence also enduring reproductive coercion. The study also revealed that more than one in seven women experienced birth control sabotage, while one in five reported pressure from their partners to conceive.
Certain demographics are particularly affected. Dr. Carter pointed out research indicating that Latina and Black adolescent girls are more susceptible to reproductive coercion.
Forms of Reproductive Coercion
According to Power To Decide, reproductive coercion encompasses actions like those experienced by Lily under her conservatorship, as well as sabotaging birth control, intentionally transmitting STIs, and coercing someone into unprotected sex. Stealthing, which involves removing a condom during intercourse without consent, is another form of reproductive coercion. It violates boundaries and heightens the risk of unintended pregnancies and STIs. Other types include pressuring someone to get pregnant against their will, threatening to end a relationship if contraception is used, or forcing someone to continue an unwanted pregnancy, according to Dr. Carter.
What to Do If You’re Facing Reproductive Coercion
Everyone has the right to make their own choices regarding reproductive health. In healthy relationships, bodily autonomy and reproductive decisions are respected. If you are in such a situation, the first step is to reach out to a trusted individual for support. Then, consult your healthcare provider about birth control options that are secure.
Dr. Carter suggests that long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) can be a good choice for those seeking a long-term solution, as they prevent pregnancy without daily management and can be inserted discreetly. For others who prefer not to use a long-acting method, discreet delivery options for birth control are available, such as through Hers, which provides home delivery of birth control pills.
In cases like Lily’s, there are complex considerations. Khiara M. Bridges, a law professor at UC Berkeley, noted in an interview that while conservators can impose restrictions for financial and medical reasons, enforcing something like an IUD seems like a significant overreach. She also acknowledged that marginalized communities often find themselves in similar situations where their reproductive rights are compromised. Lily’s case stands out primarily due to her celebrity status, which may lead to changes in policies.
For anyone experiencing abuse and seeking help, there are various resources available.
Summary
Reproductive coercion is a form of abuse that strips individuals of their right to make decisions about their reproductive health. This issue is more prevalent than many realize, affecting a wide range of individuals across different demographics. It encompasses various forms, including birth control sabotage and pressure to conceive against one’s will. There are steps that individuals can take to regain control over their reproductive choices, and numerous resources are available for support.