Women Unsafe Because of Repressive Abortion Laws

I like to be right as much as the next gal or guy, but there are some things I’d love to be wrong about. A scientific study found that abortion rates are similar in all countries – regardless of legality.

Moreover, the researchers found that abortion was safe in countries where it was legal, but dangerous in countries where it was outlawed and performed clandestinely.

For those that are unaware what illegal abortion does to women and their families, ask your grandmother what it was like before Roe v. Wade. Most women of her generation can tell you stories of young girls being forced to hide their pregnancies, others being forced to give their babies up for adoption or worse yet, women dying from “back alley” abortions. Check out some stats on the NOW site.

The study indicated that about 20 million abortions that would be considered unsafe are performed each year and that 67,000 women die as a result of complications from those abortions, most in countries where abortion is illegal.

Get involved in helping our sisters internationally control their reproductive health, and therefore, their future. Check out the International Planned Parenthood Federation. If you want to help stop the right’s attack on reproductive health in this country check out NARAL Pro-Choice America or Planned Parenthood Federation of America.