Defending a woman’s right to choose

America is a nation of comfort and the topic of abortion is one that is distressing. It is not seen as appropriate dinner discourse and some cringe away from the topic regardless of the setting. Many shy away because it is easier to do so, but like with any other controversial matter, it is one that needs to be talked about.

America is a nation of comfort and the topic of abortion is one that is distressing. It is not seen as appropriate dinner discourse and some cringe away from the topic regardless of the setting. Many shy away because it is easier to do so, but like with any other controversial matter, it is one that needs to be talked about.

A woman’s right to choose should not be defined by what someone has chosen for her. Many men in America, specifically those in positions of political power, have taken it upon themselves to further objectify women by regulating what they are able to do with their body. Women also have taken it upon themselves to speak out against fellow females. Everyone has the right to their opinion and their beliefs, but that right is not applicable when forced upon somebody else. What a woman does with here body is her choice. Bodies are not properties. It is a reproductive right to choose whether or not to terminate a pregnancy.

Women have and will continue to get abortions, despite laws. Outlawing it only affects how safely it is done. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, approximately 42 million women worldwide have unintended pregnancies and opt for abortion each year and about half of the terminations, 20 million, are unsafe. Nearly 68,000 women die each year as a result and of those who do survive, 5 million live with serious health complications.

Contrary to radical conservative belief, abortion is not murder. It is a medical procedure. It is one that needs to be made available to women of all races, cultures and financial standings. Even providers such as Planned Parenthood do not offer a sliding scale for abortions. They are approximately $500 out of pocket. This is not feasible for many and the truth is, if they cannot afford the abortion, they will have a difficult time affording the expenses that come with raising a child. Many choose abortion because it is financial issue.

Luckily, many providers such as Family Planning Health and Planned Parenthood provide information on preventing future pregnancies. They provide birth control preventative services. Teaching both genders on how to be responsible is far better than teaching them not to do it. Abortion is a difficult and emotional procedure to go through. Women do not need to be further shamed for their decision.