Abortion is a very timely topic, and of course source of many debates. Abortion legalization has numerous positive sides, starting from the fact that it ensures a safe place for women to have an abortion, avoiding all the risks that a “homemade” abortion can have and adding the aspect of protecting women from unwanted pregnancies.
Apart from that, a debate that is very discussed, is the fact that the the legalization of abortion, and thus ease of access to it, could result in an increase in abortion cases among women and an unconscientious use of this practice.
Is the legalization of abortion, then, a double-edged sword in this regard? How could this aspect be avoided, should it arise?
The answer to this question depends on the context in which data is analyzed and the methodology of the studies. Available research suggests that the legalization of abortion does not necessarily lead to an increase in the number of abortions but rather ensures that they are performed under safer conditions.
In countries where abortion is legal and accessible, the abortion rate often remains stable or decreases over time, especially when effective contraceptive policies are in place.
In countries with restrictive abortion laws, abortions still occur, but they are more likely to be unsafe and illegal, increasing the risk of complications and maternal mortality.
In countries like the Netherlands and Sweden, where comprehensive sex education and widespread access to contraception are available, abortion rates are relatively low despite liberal abortion laws.
In countries with limited access to contraception, unintended pregnancies are more common, which can lead to higher abortion rates, regardless of legal restrictions.
After the legalization of abortion in the U.S. in 1973 (Roe v. Wade), there was an initial increase, but in the long term, abortion rates declined, particularly after 1990, alongside improved access to contraception.
Abortion legalization alone does not automatically increase the number of abortions. Instead, it ensures that abortions are performed under medically safe conditions. The actual number of abortions is more influenced by access to contraception, socio-economic factors, and sexual educationthan by legal restrictions.
Before a law sexual education is need it to avoid the abortion use as a contraceptive method
The use of hormonal contraception was announced as to reduce abortions, but after decades abortions were not reduced and some countries add abortion as a right. So, I think the question should be another than Is abortion legalization a factor that increases cases of abortion in women? but perhaps : it was true the promise that contraception will reduce abortions?
- Badges
- Science method
- Similar topics
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Statistical Techniques
- Meta-Analysis