Abortion, Free Choice and Coercion

Women, Reproductive Rights, Pressure, Abortion, Pregnancy

As of today, nearly 1 in 4 pregnancies in America end in abortion [1].

Is this evidence of a triumph for women’s rights? A sign that women are now empowered with convenient access to abortion?

A common pro-choice refrain is that abortion is a ‘free choice’ and it should not be interfered with.

While there are some who believe this, the follow-up studies of women who have had abortions reveal a far different situation.

As has been mentioned elsewhere, studies have shown that almost 2/3 of women who undergo abortions report having felt coerced into the decision [2]. Also, approximately 84% report not even being given enough information to make an informed decision [3]. Doesn’t sound like a very free choice…

Along with all of the medical risks that accompany abortion, these statistics actually suggest that the rise of the abortion industry has dealt a serious blow to women gaining true freedom and independence.

However, you can help to change this.

By speaking up when you see a woman being coerced into abortion and better informing women about the risks of abortion and the full range of options available for them, you can help provide these women with the empowerment they deserve.

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References

[1] Guttmacher Institute. (2011). “Facts on Induced Abortion in the United States .”Guttmacher Institute, May 2011. Web. 12 Jun 2011. http://www.guttmacher.org/pubs/fb_induced_abortion.html

[2] Rue, Vincent., Coleman, Priscilla K., Rue, James J., and Reardon, David C. (2004). “Induced Abortion and Traumatic Stress: A Preliminary Comparison of American and Russian Women.” Medical Science Monitor. 10.10 (2004): SR5-16. Print. http://www.artsenverbond.nl/abortion.pdf

[3] Ibid

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Image from Ruhama

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