Abortion and sexual behavior in college women.

Abstract

Twenty single young college women were studied regarding their abortion experiences and post-abortion reactions. Nineteen had no appreciable psychological after-effects during an average follow-up of seven months. Untoward physical effects were negligible. Over 70% were not using any birth control method, despite knowledge and availability of contraception services. Failure to use contraception appears due to a “conspiracy of silence” regarding sexual behavior, on the part of these young women.