Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
PhD Student in Demography, Department of Demography and Anthropology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran.
2
Associate Professor, Department of Demography and Anthropology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran.
3
Associate Professor in Sociology, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
4
Professor in Reproductive Health, Research Center for Nursing and Midwifery Care, Comprehensive Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
Abstract
Induced abortion is a common response to unintended pregnancy; however, some women withdraw from abortion after the initial decision. This study, conducted in 2025, aimed to identify the consequences of withdrawing from induced abortion among married women in Yazd, Iran. Using a qualitative approach and thematic analysis, 17 married women aged 25–42 who, following the implementation of the “Population Youthfulness” law, decided against abortion and gave birth to a living child, participated in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed via stepwise coding. Findings revealed five main consequences of withdrawal from abortion: reinforcement of religious beliefs, receipt of social support, negative psychological and behavioral reactions, paternal disengagement and family disruption, and positive experiences following childbirth. Participants perceived unintended pregnancy as a divine gift and interpreted the inability to abort as God’s will. Health system services, including specialized counseling and financial support, played a key role in sustaining pregnancy and reducing economic and psychological pressures. Some women experienced anxiety and stress due to prior abortion attempts or spousal violence, and paternal neglect sometimes led to family disruption. Conversely, the birth of a healthy child, along with family and partner support, contributed to positive experiences, strengthened family relationships, and enhanced parental responsibility. The findings indicate that social support, health services, and religious beliefs are decisive factors in abortion withdrawal and the continuation of unintended pregnancies, and can inform policies and supportive interventions.
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