Abortion is a highly controversial topic that has been debated for decades. It is a sensitive issue that evokes strong emotions and beliefs from both sides. However, in this day and age, it is time to acknowledge that abortion should not still be illegal in this country.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that the decision to have an abortion is not an easy one. It is a deeply personal and difficult choice that a woman makes after careful consideration of her circumstances. It is not a decision that is taken lightly or without valid reasons. Therefore, it is not fair to criminalize women for making a choice that is best for their own lives.
Moreover, making abortion illegal does not stop it from happening. It only drives it underground, making it unsafe and putting women’s lives at risk. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 25 million unsafe abortions take place every year, resulting in the death of 47,000 women and leaving many more with long-term health complications. These numbers are alarming and cannot be ignored.
Furthermore, making abortion illegal also disproportionately affects marginalized communities and low-income women. These women do not have access to safe and legal abortion services, forcing them to resort to unsafe methods or carry unwanted pregnancies to term. This perpetuates the cycle of poverty and inequality, as these women are unable to make choices about their own bodies and futures.
In addition, the criminalization of abortion goes against the principles of bodily autonomy and reproductive rights. Every person has the right to make decisions about their own body and health, and this includes the right to access safe and legal abortion services. Denying women this right is a violation of their fundamental human rights.
Moreover, the argument that abortion is murder is flawed. A fetus is not considered a person until it is viable outside the womb, which is around 24 weeks of pregnancy. Before that, it is a part of the woman’s body and her decision to terminate the pregnancy should be respected. It is not fair to impose one’s personal beliefs on others and deny them the right to make decisions about their own bodies.
Furthermore, making abortion illegal also has a negative impact on the mental health of women. Being forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term can lead to feelings of resentment, guilt, and trauma. It can also have a significant impact on the woman’s physical and emotional well-being, as well as her ability to care for existing children. Allowing women to make their own choices about their reproductive health can prevent these negative consequences.
Moreover, the argument that abortion should be illegal to protect the sanctity of life is hypocritical. Many of those who advocate for making abortion illegal also support the death penalty and wars that result in the loss of innocent lives. This double standard is unjust and highlights the need to re-evaluate our priorities as a society.
In conclusion, it is time to acknowledge that abortion should not still be illegal in this country. Criminalizing abortion does not stop it from happening, but rather puts women’s lives at risk. It also goes against the principles of bodily autonomy and reproductive rights. It is time to trust women to make their own decisions about their bodies and support them in accessing safe and legal abortion services. Let us move towards a society that respects and values women’s choices and rights.
