This article presents results of the Brazilian chapter of the HEXCA research project, on Heterosexualities, Contraception and Abortion in four South American cities. The experience of abortion was investigated in the biographical trajectories of 31 women and 28 men of low and middle-income backgrounds, ages 18 to 27 and 40 to 49 years, with focus on the negotiation and decision-making process involving the interruption of a pregnancy. These processes are not straightforward, but have a complex timeline and are conditioned by a variety of social circumstances. The context of gender relations and the life stage at which abortion takes place are analyzed. Comparing the experience of different generations, changes in gender and family relations are highlighted, as well as representations of parenthood and reproduction, and the different methods and degrees of access to abortion procedures. The biographical perspective was revealed advantageous in linking sexual and reproductive experiences.
abortion; Rio de Janeiro; Brazil; contraception; reproductive trajectories
