Abortion is defined as the willful termination of pregnancy before the fetus can survive by itself. Since the late 19th century, abortion has been illegal in many Western countries due to the influence of the Christian church. These laws that criminalized abortion remained intact until the 1970s. During this time, thousands of women every year sought abortions, despite its illegality. Women often had abortions under unsafe conditions, and many died or suffered complications from them. When abortion became legal in the 70s, new procedures were employed to ensure the safety and sanitation of the mother. Abortion-related deaths and complications became a thing of the past.
Historical Views
The controversy surrounding the legality, as well as the morality, of abortion has been discussed throughout the ages. There has been little advancement on the subject; the topics that were argued thousands of years ago continue to be argued today.
The term “pro-choice” was coined by opponents of the legislation that makes abortion illegal. These people believe that women should have the legal right to have an abortion. They would like to preserve a woman’s right to privacy as well as the ability to control what they can or cannot do. They believe that the government does not have the authority to pass laws that deal with their bodies.
Abortion Rights Issues
The controversy concerning abortion rights today has become politicized. The Democratic Party tends to be more pro-choice than the Republican Party. However, recent studies have shown that the most people view abortion rights somewhat more moderately than politicians.
In 1973, the controversial ruling by the Supreme Court on the Roe vs. Wade case made it unconstitutional to pass laws banning abortions during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. However, it restricts abortions during the third trimester unless the life or health of the mother is at risk.
Pro-choice activists oppose all laws that pertain to limiting a woman’s rights to an abortion.
