Abortion: Breaking the Stigma READY FOR REVIEW
To say abortion is a controversial topic would be an understatement, it’s a subject debated by politicians and priests, philosopher and parents. But at the end of the day, abortion is a routine medical procedure like any other and should be treated as such. Fumble is here to break down some common misconceptions about abortion and the people who choose to have them.
Only Teenagers Get Abortions
Sorry 16 and Pregnant but contrary to popular belief, the most common age for people to have an abortion in the UK is 20-24. Many even have the procedure in their 30’s and 40’s. In fact, from 2007 to 2017 abortion rates for under 18’s halved, while they steadily increased for people over 30. Ooof statistics can make your brain spin huh!?
Abortions Must be Traumatic
Everyone responds to the aftermath of abortion differently and folks who have one are no more likely to experience mental health problems than those who continue with their pregnancy. While for some abortions can be traumatic, many people feel perfectly fine afterwards and don’t have an emotional reaction. Take a breath and repeat … my emotions are valid.
Either way it can be a good idea to check in with a councillor before and or after the procedure to talk through your decision and address any difficult feelings you may be having. Your GP or the clinic providing you with an abortion can refer you.
Abortions Aren’t Safe
Abortions are one of the safest and simplest procedures in the western world and having an abortion won’t affect your chances of becoming pregnant in the future. It is rare for an abortion treatment to have complications or even require a stay in hospital.
Talk to your doctor for more information if you’re concerned about the medical risks of abortion and of course seek help if you have any negative side effects afterwards.
You Need Parental Permission
People under sixteen do not need permission from their parents to undergo an abortion. Promise! All the information that you give to your GP or any other medical professional is confidential by law and relaying this private information to anyone including the parent(s) of an underage person is a major and illegal breach of this confidentiality.
Abortions Kill Babies
9 out of 10 abortions are carried out before the 13-week mark and 4 out of 5 happen before ten weeks. Abortion is legal in the first 24 weeks of pregnancy, however, abortions occurring after 12 weeks are rare and usually only happen when the life of the mother or the foetus is at risk.
At 12 weeks a foetus is the size of a lime and does not have a fully functioning nervous system. Whether or not you believe life begins at conception is your choice, however, it is undeniable that the lifeform at this stage of pregnancy is significantly different to a new-born baby.
When it comes to abortion the media is a black hole of misinformation and political propaganda. It’s perfectly understandable to be confused about what the real facts are.
If you or your friend are considering ending a pregnancy you can contact British Pregnancy Advisory Service (03457 30 40 30), Marie Stopes UK (0345 3008090) and the National Unplanned Pregnancy Advisory Service (0333 004 6666).
For more help from Fumble check out this article on your choices surrounding pregnancy. Think of us as your wiser older sister on the interwebs!
