The issue of abortion has led to many differing views on whether it is justifiable or not. Individuals, politicians, churches and other organizations all have something to say. As the controversial debate goes on, it is important to note that USA has legalized abortion, giving the women a chance to choose (James). Statistics show that up to 6 million unwanted pregnancies occur annually in the US with most women opting for abortion. Such pregnancies result from; lack or failure of contraceptive methods, rape, incest and others.
Aborting refers to the medical procedure of pregnancy termination before it grows to full term and a baby is born. This can be done medically or surgically. Medical abortion is done for a pregnancy within the first nine weeks through taking of pills in two doses. This takes a period of 4-5 hours after which a check-up is done to ensure its effectiveness. The patient may experience frustration, fatigue and bleeding for some days. On the other hand, surgical abortion is quicker and effective for early stages of pregnancy. This is a 10 minute procedure involving the use of suction method to remove the pregnancy. Some level of pain and discomfort during and after the procedure is considered normal and the recovery is quick.
The cost of abortion in America depends on the method and equipment used to carry out the procedure. For medical process, cost of Mifepristone and Misoprostol drugs ranges from $300-$800. In surgical process, the cost can go up to $2000 for the case of dilation and evacuation. If the process goes wrong, the effects may lead to infections, barrenness and even death. Symptoms of infection include; a smelly discharge, extreme cramps, fever, pain in the lower abdomen and non-stop bleeding (James).
Children are considered a blessing and a source of joy. Why then, would someone opt for an abortion? The main reasons are; when the pregnancy puts the mother’s life at risk, the foetus has severe health problems, rape, and incest cases that cause emotional and psychological trauma to the mother. Other reasons may be due to; lack of financial stability, immaturity, interference with education, career and dreams, and coercion by parents and other family members.
The Law in USA has made several provisions for abortion. First and foremost, there is the Informed Consent which requires a patient to be provided with information on the health risks before making the choice. Spousal Notification requires married women to have the consent of their husbands before aborting. For the case of minors, the law requires Parental Consent. Subsequently, a Waiting Period should be provided to ensure the woman is counseled to consider changing her mind. There are alternatives such as adoption (Earll).
Most religions agree on the view that it is a sin due to the disregard for the value of life (Valley Bible Church, 1). Life is created by God and should be taken away only by Him. Those with a philosophical stand argue that human life begins at conception thus abortion is killing (Valley Bible Church, 3). Practicality asserts that abortion poses a risk to the health of the woman due to possible infections and death. It is also an expensive procedure which can be avoided through the correct use of contraceptives.
No matter where you stand, the subject of abortion will remain controversial. The decision lies solely with the woman who should consider her values morally, religiously and practically before making a decision. In my view, life is sacred and should be preserved.
Works Cited
James, Emma. Abortion Facts 2012, Web. < http://www.abortionfacts.net/author/admin >
Earll, Carrie G. Abortion Laws in the United States. Citizen Link 2010, Web. < http://www.citizenlink.com>Home>Analysis >
Valley Bible Church. Abortion 2000, Web. < http://valleybible.net >
