Reproductive coercion is the deception, lying, or deceit by one sexual partner of the other regarding the partners’ agreed birth control and sexually-transmitted-disease-protection practices. Reproductive coercion can take many forms, and may be perpetrated by women or men. For example, one partner may falsely represent to the other partner the use or continued use of birth control, or otherwise sabotage the partners’ agreed birth control practices. Although this behavior may result in nonconsensual sexual contact, the law generally does not recognize rape or fraud charges based on such behavior—due in part to the difficulty in proving such matters. And the allegation or proof of such behavior will not change a parent’s child support obligations.
In Oregon, reproductive coercion is not explicitly defined in the legal statutes as a form of sexual assault or rape. However, it is recognized as a form of domestic violence and abuse. Oregon law defines domestic violence to include coercing or attempting to coerce a partner into an unwanted pregnancy. This can be through tampering with birth control or by other means. While reproductive coercion may not lead to criminal charges of rape or fraud due to the challenges in proving intent and deception, it is still considered a serious issue. Victims of reproductive coercion can seek protection orders and may be able to pursue other legal actions related to domestic violence. It is important to note that regardless of the circumstances of conception, both parents have child support obligations that are determined based on the best interests of the child, not the behavior of the parents during conception.