Table of Contents
Introduction
The abortion debate continues to rage and evoke different responses. In the modern society, there are both critics and proponents of the process. Liberal tendencies promote the practice, citing changing social values and the need for society to value the life of a pregnant mother over that of the newborn. On the other hand, the critics who hold conservative views oppose the process because it violates the moral fabric of the society (Cintina & Johansen, 2014). The debate has roped in the world governments into the issue. Liberal states, especially the western countries, promote the practice and even allow budgetary allocations to the promotion of maternal health. Conservative states, notably the eastern countries, oppose the idea and prefer the doctrines supported by various religious institutions. Proponents of the practice cite the divine human right over their bodies. Specifically, the supporters allege the right to reproductive health as one of the driving motives behind the legalization o the practice. On the other hand, the opponents cite the probable abuse of the process. According to the critics, the legalization may lead to losing morals in the society as the youngsters engage in premarital sex without any abandon. The issue continues to evoke great debate revolving around its pros and cons. The ensuing research analyses some of the arguments advanced for or opposing the practice. In the end, it is safe to assume that abortion promotes maternal health and should be operated only in given circumstances and strict mechanisms must be incorporated to stem abuse.
The Pros of Abortion
Abortion promotes maternal health by giving the mothers the control over their health statuses. Mothers who are not ready to carry the pregnancy to term can exercise the option to enable them to provide decent living standards to their children. Also, the choice allows mothers who have been victims of rape to terminate the unwanted pregnancy that may be the cause of psychological trauma (Jones & Jerman, 2014). Also, abortion helps working mothers to develop their careers without the constraints of child care. Through continuous engagement at the workplace, the young mothers can chart the course to their professional development and compete favorably with the men (ProCon.Org). Contrary to what many claims, abortion does not amount to torture of the fetus. Although the fetus may be at an improved stage, it is not capable of experiencing pain that may constitute torture. Also, abortion is in the Constitution as a fundamental right. The right cannot be taken away arbitrarily. The women must b allowed the freedom to exercise this right without the fear of reprisals or victimization from the society.
The Cons of Abortion
Abortion is a crime as it deprives the unborn baby the right to life. Biologists assert that the life of a child begins at conception (Gross, Lafortune, & Low, 2013). By the time the pregnancy becomes noticeable, the existence of the fetus may be well defined. Terminating the life of the fetus at will constitutes murder. Just like the mature individuals, the children must also be permitted to develop to maturity and exercise the rights wielded by others. Also, by the time the child begins to grow, it becomes attached to the mother both physicality and emotionally (Sherman, 2005). Despite the fact that the termination of the pregnancy affords one temporary peace, it causes much anguish later on.
Studies reveal that the process leads to psychological trauma for the mother (Diaz-Tello, 2016). Eventually, the mother becomes disturbed and may loathe the idea of conceiving again. Besides, the medical and psychological complications, abortion on its own is morally wrong. The availability of options causes people to be reckless, especially about their sexual practices. It is feasible that in the future the youngsters will engage in casual sex, in the hope of procuring abortion later on. The recklessness may further expose the parties to sexually transmitted diseases.
Conclusion
Abortion is a necessary evil. On the one hand, it permits a mother to exercise control over her reproductive health status and avoid unwarranted embarrassment. However, the process is often abused to allow reckless people to live carefree lives. If well handled, abortion could solve some medical complications and allow people comfortable lifestyles. On the other hand, if abused, it may promote different sexual behaviors which may cause other venereal diseases. Largely, abortion is evil and should be regulated under a strict legal regime.
- Cintina, I. & Johansen, M. S. (2014). The effect of plan B on teen abortions: Evidence from the 2006 FDA ruling. Contemporary Economic Policy , 418–433.
- Diaz-Tello, F. (2016). Invisible wounds: Obstetric violence in the United States. Reproductive Health Matters, 56–64.
- Gross, T., Lafortune, J., & Low, C. (2013). What Happens the Morning After? The Costs and
- Benefits of Expanding Access to Emergency Contraception. Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 70-93.
- Jones, R. K., & Jerman, J. (2014). Abortion incidence and service availability In the United States, 2011. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health, 3-14.
- Sherman, C. A. (2005). Emergency contraception: The politics of post-coital contraception. Journal of social issues, 139–157.
- Should Abortion Be Legal? (n.d.). Retrieved January 20, 2017, from ProCon.ORG: http://abortion.procon.org/