Abortion sparks heated debates and divides our nation. Some firmly believe in the sanctity of life and vehemently oppose abortion, advocating for its ban. Others support a woman’s right to choose, arguing for her autonomy in deciding whether to continue or end a pregnancy. These opposing views greatly impact politicians and voting choices.
This research paper explores the multifaceted aspects of abortion, encompassing diverse beliefs, legal and political ramifications, and medical facts pertaining to this contentious issue. Data indicates that 1 in 3 women have experienced an abortion prior to turning 45. There are two primary methods for conducting abortions: in-clinic procedures and the utilization of abortion pills. In-clinic abortions can be performed through aspiration or dilation and evacuation techniques. Aspiration entails employing a vacuum-like tube inserted into the cervix to extract the contents of the uterus.
The most common in-clinic procedure is aspiration, which can be done within 16 weeks after your last period. This procedure utilizes medical tools and a suction machine to empty the uterus. If the abortion is performed later in the second trimester, an injection into the abdomen may be necessary to ensure termination of the fetus.
Alternatively, there is a less invasive option known as the abortion pill. This method involves taking two pills over three days. The first pill will be administered by your healthcare provider along with antibiotics.
The abortion pill functions by inhibiting progesterone, resulting in the deterioration of the uterine lining. In conjunction with this pill, Misoprostol is administered to evacuate the uterus. This approach proves effective for pregnancies up to 9 weeks. Advocates of the pro-life perspective contend that conception marks the commencement of life and perceive abortion as tantamount to homicide. Additionally, America ranks among countries with elevated rates of abortions. Pro-life proponents also furnish diverse evidence substantiating their assertion that abortions can lead to complications.
Supporters of the pro-life movement argue that having an abortion can lead to various negative psychological effects, including breast cancer, depression, and thoughts of suicide. They also express concerns about the safety of the procedure and believe that human life begins at conception. They claim that multiple abortions increase the risk of complications such as miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies (Walkey 3). On the other hand, advocates for the pro-choice position defend a woman’s right to decide whether or not to continue with a pregnancy until childbirth.
Advocates for pro-choice argue in favor of the continued legality of abortions due to various reasons. They contend that individuals who have been victims of rape, lack the financial means to raise a child, or face endangerment to the mother’s health should have access to abortion as it may be their only viable choice. Furthermore, proponents highlight the potential rise in illegal abortions as another crucial reason for legalizing abortion. Prior to its legalization, numerous women relied on unlicensed “doctors” for abortions, leading to unsafe procedures and severe complications.
Abortion can have various consequences such as infertility, infections, diseases, and potential future miscarriages. The American Psychological Association and American Sociological Association both agree with this perspective. They assert that women have a fundamental right to decide whether or not to proceed with a pregnancy until delivery. The ongoing political debate surrounding abortion primarily centers on the psychological impacts of an unwanted pregnancy in comparison to obtaining an abortion, while also considering the emotional and physical well-being of the woman involved.
The Supreme Court ruling in Roe v. Wade supports the belief that women have a constitutional right to access abortion. This case, along with others related to abortion, was presented before the Supreme Court and resulted in a 7-2 majority vote in favor of Roe. The court concluded that the right to privacy, which is protected by the due process clause of the Walkey 4, encompasses the right to obtain an abortion. Their decision took into consideration the increased risks associated with childbirth compared to having an abortion during the first trimester.
The Supreme Court affirmed a woman’s constitutional right to make decisions about motherhood, although by the time the ruling was made, it was no longer possible for her to end the pregnancy. The issue of when life commences continues to be a subject of contention. Individuals who prioritize preserving life contend that conception marks the beginning, deeming abortion as an act of killing. Conversely, advocates for women’s autonomy maintain that life begins at birth and justify abortion on moral grounds. Ultimately, accurately identifying the initiation of human existence is essential in evaluating the ethical validity of abortion.
This is a question that individuals must ask themselves: how can we improve the situation? In my opinion, there are numerous actions our country can take to reduce the annual number of abortions. Instead of completely banning abortion, we should focus on providing resources to prevent pregnancies. President Obama has implemented a plan that requires all universities and hospitals to provide contraceptives to their employees, patients, and students. By ensuring access to contraceptives at universities, we are gradually decreasing the demand for abortions (Walkey 5). Taking these facts into consideration, I support the pro-choice position.
I support a woman’s right to decide whether or not to go through with a full-term pregnancy. The legalization of abortion can help prevent the use of unsafe methods to terminate pregnancies, as individuals would opt for safer alternatives. Moreover, there are specific circumstances where legalizing abortion offers benefits. For example, if a woman becomes pregnant as a result of rape, it is unfair to expect her to carry and raise a child that could cause significant emotional distress and serve as a constant reminder of the assault. Additionally, when the risks related to childbirth outweigh those associated with having an abortion.
Pro-choice advocates argue for the right to have an abortion and also respect those who choose not to undergo the procedure. Therefore, I question why making abortion illegal is justified when individuals desiring it will find a means to acquire it, while those who do not want it will remain unaffected. As Americans, we are entitled to make choices within legal limits. Personally, I doubt that banning abortion will occur in the future as illicit methods carry higher risks compared to safe and sanitary legal abortions. Limiting access to abortions would contradict our constitutional rights.
Despite the ongoing debate, it is unreasonable to continue arguing about this issue. The reality is, nothing will change and we waste a significant amount of time discussing it. Instead, our attention should be directed towards more urgent matters rather than focusing on abortion. Whether we like it or not, abortions are here to stay. Both sides of the argument have valid points worth considering in general. This topic is constantly evolving and new studies are conducted daily. Consequently, it will remain one of the most extensively discussed subjects in politics. Regardless of whether you lean towards conservatism or liberalism, you have the right to express your opinion, making this matter highly controversial.
Abortion continues to be a lasting issue, despite the ongoing debates on morality and politics. The Supreme Court has recognized abortion as a constitutional right, protected through due process. Once this right is granted, it cannot be taken away. As a result, new arguments for or against its legality continue to arise, ensuring that it remains an important topic in politics.
While there may be differing opinions, I firmly believe that abortion is an unchangeable and ongoing issue. The legal status of abortions has been established and will remain in effect indefinitely.
Works cited
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Web. 3 Apr. 2012. Sullivan, Andrew. “The Case for Compromise on Abortion. ” Time Magazine 27 Feb. 2005: 1-2. Time Magazine U. S. Web. 3 Apr. 2012.
Welch, Liz. “Abortion: The Serious Health Decision Women Aren’t Talking About Until Now. ” Glamour 2 Feb. 2009: 1-4. Glamour Sex & Love. Web. 3 Apr. 2012.
