Comparative Analysis of the Father’s Role in Abortion Decisions in Iran and Other Countries: A Review Study

Background: The husband, as a life partner, may not always be involved in abortion decisions, or his participation may be limited to material, emotional, or legal considerations. To investigate the role and participation of men in abortion decisions in Iran and selected other countries.Methods: This narrative review examined the role of fathers in abortion decisions from 1980 to 2023. Literature was searched using keywords including father, rights, abortion, Iran, and Europe.Results: Socio-psychological experiences of women regarding partner involvement in abortion vary across countries. Influential factors include the absence of spousal consent requirements, selective disengagement of the sexual partner, financial and emotional support from the husband, denial or rejection of pregnancy, psychological factors associated with the husband, cohabitation with parents, marital instability, national and cultural norms, and male attitudes toward reproductive decisions. In Iran, the father’s consent is legally required for abortion due to the attachment of parentage under Article 1158 of the Civil Code. Islamic law (Quran 4:34, An-Nisaa; 2:233, Al-Baqarah) further delineates the husband’s authority and obligation regarding child support.Conclusion: Male involvement in abortion decisions influences the normative environment in most countries. Providing fathers with a participatory role has protective effects on the health and well-being of fathers, mothers, and children. Nonetheless, Islamic and legal frameworks recognize the wife’s right to participate in pregnancy care and abortion-related decisions.