In this piece Adeyinka Adeniran looks at the myth surrounding the concept of abortion by presenting some fact. The piece delve into common myths and facts about abortion, exploring the realities surrounding this contentious issue, as the concept is largely undermining the health of women, especially children.
Abortion is a complex and sensitive topic, often shrouded in misconception and myth. In a bid to strive to create a more informed and compassionate public discourse, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction based on findings from medical experts, researchers, health workers, scholars among others.
Myth: Abortion is only sought by young, unmarried women
Reality: Women of all ages, marital statuses, and socioeconomic backgrounds may seek abortion care. According to the Guttmacher Institute, women aged 20-24 account for the majority of abortions, but women in their 30s and 40s also seek abortion care. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that women aged 35-39 account for approximately 20% of all abortions.
Myth: Abortion is always traumatic and regretted
Reality: Research shows that the majority of women who have abortions do not experience long-term regret or psychological harm. In fact, a study by ACOG found that most women report feeling relieved and empowered after an abortion. The American Psychological Association (APA) also concluded that the majority of women who undergo an abortion experience positive emotional outcomes.
Myth: Abortion is used as a form of birth control
Reality: Abortion is not a method of birth control. Women who seek abortions often do so due to factors such as contraceptive failure, lack of access to contraception, or unintended pregnancy. Comprehensive sexual education and access to affordable contraception are essential in preventing unintended pregnancies and reducing the need for abortion. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of all pregnancies in the United States are unintended.
Myth: Abortion endangers future fertility
Reality: Legal and medically supervised abortions do not pose a significant risk to future fertility. The procedures used in safe abortion care are designed to minimize the risk of complications and preserve reproductive health. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) states that abortion does not affect future fertility, and the majority of women who undergo an abortion can become pregnant again.
Myth: Abortion is only performed for sex selection
Reality: While sex-selective abortions do occur in some parts of the world, the majority of abortions are sought for reasons unrelated to the sex of the fetus. Factors such as financial instability, health concerns, relationship status, and personal beliefs influence the decision to have an abortion. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most common reasons for abortion are: Financial constraints, Health concerns, Relationship issues and Personal beliefs
Myth: Abortion causes long-term physical and psychological harm
Reality: Research shows that legal and medically supervised abortions do not pose significant long-term physical or psychological risks. The WHO emphasizes that safe abortion services are essential for protecting women’s health and well-being. The APA also concluded that the majority of women who undergo an abortion experience positive emotional outcomes.
Myth: Abortion is always unsafe and risky
Reality: Legal and medically supervised abortions are safe procedures with low complication rates. The WHO states that safe abortion services reduce maternal morbidity and mortality, highlighting the importance of ensuring women’s access to reproductive healthcare. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that abortion is safer than childbirth.
Myth: Criminalizing abortion reduces its incidence
Reality: Restrictive abortion laws drive the practice underground, leading to increased unsafe abortions and maternal mortality. Evidence-based strategies, such as comprehensive sexual education, access to contraception, and safe abortion services, are far more effective in reducing the incidence of unintended pregnancies and the need for abortion. According to the WHO, restricting access to abortion does not reduce the number of abortions performed, but rather increases the number of unsafe abortions.
Myth: Abortion is only performed in late-term pregnancy
Reality: The majority of abortions occur in the first trimester of pregnancy, with the vast majority performed within the first 12 weeks. Late-term abortions, typically defined as those performed after 20 weeks of gestation, are relatively rare and usually involve serious fetal abnormalities or risks to the pregnant person’s health.
Myth: Abortion is morally wrong and should be illegal
Reality: The moral and ethical considerations surrounding abortion are complex and subjective, with diverse perspectives across cultures, religions, and belief systems. While some individuals may personally oppose abortion for moral or religious reasons, it’s essential to respect the autonomy and agency of others in making decisions about their own bodies and lives. Upholding reproductive rights and access to safe and legal abortion services allows individuals to make choices consistent with their own values and beliefs, without imposing moral judgments or restrictions on others.
Myth: Abortion is a reflection of a society’s moral decay
Reality: Abortion rates are not necessarily a reflection of a society’s moral values.
The Abortion Myth-busting imperative: Why accurate information matters
Abortion is one of the most polarizing and misunderstood topics of our time. For decades, myths and misconceptions have shrouded the issue, fueling stigma, shame, and misinformation. However, in an era where reproductive rights are increasingly under threat, it’s more crucial than ever to separate fact from fiction.
The Power of Accurate information
Informed decision-making is a fundamental human right. When it comes to abortion, accurate information is paramount. “Myths and misconceptions can have devastating consequences,” says Dr. Jennifer Conti, a leading expert in reproductive health. “Women deserve to know the truth about abortion, free from stigma and shame.”
Dispelling the Myths
From claims that abortion is always traumatic and regretted to assertions that it’s a reflection of societal moral decay, myths about abortion abound. However, research and evidence paint a very different picture. For instance, studies have consistently shown that the majority of women who undergo abortions do not experience long-term regret or psychological harm. In fact, many report feeling relieved and empowered.
The Importance of Reproductive Autonomy
Correcting myths about abortion is not just about providing accurate information; it’s also about promoting reproductive autonomy. When women are empowered to make informed decisions about their bodies and health, they’re better equipped to exercise their reproductive rights. “Reproductive autonomy is a fundamental human right,” says reproductive rights advocate, Monica Simpson. “Women deserve to have control over their own bodies, free from coercion, stigma, and shame.”
The Consequences of Misinformation
The consequences of misinformation about abortion can be severe. Women who are misinformed about abortion may be more likely to seek unsafe, illegal abortions, which can result in serious health complications, including death. Moreover, misinformation can perpetuate stigma and shame, making it more difficult for women to access reproductive healthcare services.
A Call to Action
Correcting myths about abortion is a collective responsibility. It requires a commitment to providing accurate information, promoting reproductive autonomy, and challenging stigma and shame. As we move forward in this critical moment for reproductive rights, it’s essential that we prioritize truth, empathy, and understanding. By doing so, we can create a more just and equitable society, where women’s reproductive rights are respected, protected, and promoted.
