Belief-based denial of contraception and abortion care in Canada: A scoping review.

This article focuses on the belief-based denial of contraception and abortion care in Canada, examining existing knowledge through a scoping review of 97 sources including peer-reviewed articles, media reports, and reproductive health organization materials. Although Canadian federal policies classify contraception and abortion as medically necessary services, healthcare providers are permitted to refuse these services or referrals based on personal beliefs, a practice often termed "conscientious objection," though the article prefers "belief-based denial" to better reflect the medical context. The literature primarily addresses conceptual definitions, legal and ethical frameworks, and policy variability across provinces, revealing unclear and inconsistent guidelines regarding providers' duty to refer patients when denying care. Notably, there is a significant gap in research documenting the experiences and impacts of belief-based denial on patients seeking contraception and abortion services in Canada. The article highlights ongoing debates about terminology and calls for further research centered on the perspectives of those affected to inform equitable policy development.