Abortion -- Pro-Choice Essay

The following essay is separated into six parts, addressing concerns and opinions about the abortion debate.

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I. The important definitions of “pro-life” and “pro-choice.”

I feel this needs to be cleared up within the abortion debate. Misrepresentations of the pro-life and pro-choice positions is a root cause of abortion propaganda.

A general summation of a pro-lifer's views:
Life begins at conception. A fetus is a person. The unborn child is human. Abortion is not safe. Roe v. Wade should be overturned. The government should not fund abortions. Abortion should be made completely illegal as it is murder.

(A pro-lifer supports the life of the fetus.)

A general summation of a pro-choicer's views:
Life technically begins at conception, but the true debate should be over when personhood begins. A fetus or embryo is not a person. The unborn child is not a human. Abortion is safe. I support Roe v. Wade. The government should fund abortions. Abortion should be legal as it is not murder.

(A pro-choicer supports the choice of the woman.)

A misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the pro-life/pro-choice stances can lead to propaganda:
"Pro-choice does not exist. The child didn't have a choice."
"Choose life! Your mother did."
"Against abortion? Don't have one!"

Side note: "Pro-abortion" is not a real political stance on abortion. Pro-choicers support a woman's reproductive choice, meaning that a pregnant woman should be able to choose abortion, adoption, or motherhood, and no choice is toted as the "best". Pro-abortion would deny reproductive choice for women just as much as anti-abortion does.

II. Common Pro-Life Myths

1. "You can't be pro-choice and be anti-death penalty/anti-war at the same time."

False. The pro-choice position is asserted on the idea that women have the right to decide whether to carry their pregnancies to term. The victims of the death penalty and war are fully conscious people rather than pre-sentient entities in a woman's uterus, so the moral questions involved are entirely different.

2. "Abortion causes breast cancer."

Mostly false. In 1997, the New England Journal of Medicine published the largest scale study ever on this subject – with 1.5 million participants--which concluded that there is no independent link between abortion and breast cancer. So if abortion does increase the risk of breast cancer, it does so by an undetectably small margin. Becoming pregnant and carrying a pregnancy to term may, however, reduce the risk of breast cancer.

3. "This is what an abortion looks like."

This is almost always false. Many abortion protest photographs are artist's renderings or the result of image manipulation, and the bulk of the rest are of very late-term fetuses aborted for emergency medical reasons. The most well-known graphic abortion poster is of a 30-week-old fetus, aborted six full weeks into the third trimester. The vast majority of abortions are performed during the first trimester. It’s also important to know that Roe v. Wade only protects first and second trimester abortions.

4. "Even first-trimester fetuses can feel pain."

Completely false. Fetal nerve cells can react to trauma, but pain reception requires a neocortex--which is not formed until early in the third trimester.

5. "Fetuses become conscious at 8 weeks."

False. Fetuses begin to develop a minimal brain stem at 7 weeks, but are not capable of consciousness until the third trimester and most likely remain unconscious until birth. As one brain scientist puts it, "the fetus and neonate appears incapable of ... experiencing or generating 'true' emotion or any semblance of higher order, forebrain mediated cognitive activity."

6. "Emergency contraception causes abortions."

False. Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy from occurring in the first place by surrounding the egg and not letting any sperm connect with it; it does not, and cannot, induce abortions. If you want to reduce the number of abortions, then the single most effective thing you can do to achieve that goal is to help make emergency contraception available over the counter.

7. "Banning abortion will get rid of it, once and for all."

False. In El Salvador, abortion is illegal with a possible 30-year prison sentence attached--and women can still easily obtain cheap black market abortificients to induce abortion. The only drawback is no medical supervision. Banning abortion won't put an end to abortion, but it will put women's lives at risk.

8. "Pro-choice activists want to increase the number of abortions."

Wrong, false, and wrong-false. Pro-choice activists support comprehensive sex education, increased access to birth control, condom use, and emergency contraception, all of which reduce the incidence of abortion. Oddly enough, anti-abortion activists work equally hard to make these options more difficult to access--creating the impression that the anti-abortion movement is more concerned with sexual purity than abortion.

9. "Pro-choice activists want abortion on demand until the moment of birth."

False. Pro-choice activists work to protect the Roe v. Wade standard, which allows states to ban elective third-trimester abortions. The debate over late-term and partial-birth abortions has to do with abortions performed for emergency medical reasons, not elective abortions.

III. The Infamous Pro-Life Poem, Fixed

The following is an iconic example of pro-life propaganda. It passes exaggeration and saunters right on in to outright lies.

Baby
Month 1

Mommy
I am only 8 inches long
but I have all my organs.
I love the sound of your voice.
Every time I hear it
I wave my arms and legs.
The sound of your heart beat
is my favorite lullaby.

At the end of week 5 (one month and one week), the fetus is 1/8 of an inch long, not 8 inches long. At the end of week 8 (2 months) all essential organs have "at least begun formation", meaning that they still aren't all formed after 2 months, much less fully formed after one month. The ears begin to form as optic pits at the end of week 5; that means they have not even begun forming at the end of month 1, so there is no way the fetus can hear anything – not the sound of a voice, nor a heartbeat. At the end of week 5, arm buds are visible. At the end of week 6, leg buds form. This means at the end of month one, there are certainly no arms or legs to wave.

Month Two
Mommy
today I learned how to suck my thumb.
If you could see me
you could definitely tell that I am a baby.
I'm not big enough to survive outside my home though.
It is so nice and warm in here.

The fetus begins to make sucking motions with its mouth somewhere between weeks 14 and 17 (3 1/2 to 4 months).

Month Three
You know what Mommy
I'm a boy!!
I hope that makes you happy.
I always want you to be happy.
I don't like it when you cry.
You sound so sad.
It makes me sad too
and I cry with you even though
you can't hear me.

This one's okay. Genitals appear well differentiated at 3 1/2 to 4 months.

Month Four
Mommy
my hair is starting to grow.
It is very short and fine
but I will have a lot of it.
I spend a lot of my time exercising.
I can turn my head and curl my fingers and toes
and stretch my arms and legs.
I am becoming quite good at it too.

Hair follicles start to grow at week 8 (2 months), so this one is all right too.

Month Five
You went to the doctor today.
Mommy, he lied to you.
He said that I'm not a baby.
I am a baby Mommy, your baby.
I think and feel.
Mommy, what's abortion?

Now, at month five, the fetus is about 8 inches long. However, at this point, the "baby" still cannot think or feel.

Month Six
I can hear that doctor again.
I don't like him.
He seems cold and heartless.
Something is intruding my home.
The doctor called it a needle.
Mommy what is it? It burns!
Please make him stop!
I can't get away from it!
Mommy! HELP me!

Given that abortion is one month away from being very illegal, it is unlikely that a woman would wait this long to abort.

Month Seven
Mommy
I am okay.
I am in Jesus's arms.
He is holding me.
He told me about abortion.
Why didn't you want me Mommy?

...

Every Abortion Is Just . . .
One more heart that was stopped.
Two more eyes that will never see.
Two more hands that will never touch.
Two more legs that will never run.
One more mouth that will never speak.
*And another life that didn't live*

As true as this is, it's also true that every abortion is just:
One more heart that will never ache from neglect.
Two more eyes that will never cry.
Two more hands that will never self-harm.
Two more legs that will never run away from home.
One more mouth that will never say "I shouldn't have existed."


IV. Types of Birth Control

Abstinence:
Description – There are many definitions of abstinence, but to be 100% safe from STDs and pregnancy, it means avoiding all sexual activities, including oral sex and mutual masturbation.
Pros – It is the only completely effective way of protecting against pregnancy and STDs.
Cons – It can be hard to deal with social pressure to have sex, as well as your personal desire.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy – 100%, if abstinent from ALL sexual activities.

Condom:
Description – A condom is a thin latex or plastic barrier that fits over the penis like a glove, preventing sperm from entering the vagina during sex. For people who are allergic to latex, there are also condoms made out of animal skins.
Pros – They are relatively cheap (about one dollar each) and are easy to get. They offer some protection against STDs, and come in a variety of sizes, colors, and flavors.
Cons – They can slip off or break, which limits their effectiveness.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy – 85% with typical use, 98% with perfect use.

Female Condom:
Description - The female condom is a thin plastic pouch that keeps sperm from entering the vagina. The closed end is inserted into the vagina, while the open end remains outside of the body.
Pros - They are relatively cheap (one condom costs about $3), easy to get, and offer some protection against STDs.
Cons - They are less effective than male condoms at preventing STDs and pregnancy.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 79% with typical use. 95% with perfect use.


The Pill:
Description - Taken daily, the pill is a combination of hormones (estrogen and progesterone), which prevent ovulation and/or thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg (depending on which type of pill). There are several different pills available.
Pros - The pill regulates and may even lighten your period. It may improve your skin and could prevent certain types of cancer. The pill can be cheap: a monthly pack costs between $20 and $35, but some or all of the cost is sometimes covered by insurance.
Cons -
You have to take the pill at the same time everyday, and you may experience a decrease in your sex drive. The pill does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 92% with typical use. 99% with perfect use.

The Patch:
Description - A thin plastic patch that sticks on your skin like a sticker. Your skin absorbs hormones through the patch similar to those in the pill. You change it once a week.
Pros - It is a once-weekly method, rather than daily. The patch regulates and may even lighten your period. It may improve your skin and could prevent certain types of cancer. The patch can be cheap: it usually costs between $20 and $35 a month, but some or all of the cost is sometimes covered by insurance.
Cons - You have to keep the patch on your skin all the time (yes, you can shower with it). It contains high levels of hormones and may be linked to blood clots. The patch does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 99% with perfect use. Effectiveness with typical use is not yet known.

NuvaRing:
Description - The Nuva Ring is a contraceptive ring that is inserted into the vagina once a month. The ring stays in for three weeks; when removed, your period occurs. Each month you use a new ring. The ring is about 2 inches in diameter, rubbery and comfortable to use. It stays within the walls of the vagina by itself. It cannot get lost inside of you, nor will it fall out.
Pros - The ring gives a low dose of hormones, which lessens side effects. It's an easy, once-monthly method.
Cons - Many women have an increase in vaginal discharge with the ring. There is a low risk of serious health problems, like blood clots. The ring does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 99.7% with perfect use. Effectiveness with typical use is not yet known.

Spermicide:
Description - Spermicides can come in solid or liquid forms, like creams, jellies, foams and suppositories; and are inserted into the vagina right before intercourse. The spermicide dissolves, forming a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the uterus.
Pros - It's pretty cheap (about $10 at a drug store), and no prescription needed.
Cons – It can interrupt "the moment" while inserting the spermicide. It also may cause irritation on the penis or vagina, but this is normally just a sensitivity to particular brands. Spermicide is not as effective as other methods, so doctors still advise using a condom with spermicides. Spermicide does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 71% with typical use. 85% with perfect use.

Cervical Cap:
Description - A cervical cap is a thimble-size cup that is inserted into the vagina and covers the cervix. The cap is personally fitted to the woman at a clinic or doctor's office. Before insertion, the cap is filled with spermicide, which kills the sperm as it enters the woman's body. After having sex, the cap should be left in place for about 8 hours before being removed.
Pros - The cervical cap does not interrupt "the moment." It can be inserted up to 10 hours before sex. It does not effect your menstrual cycle.
Cons - You need to be fitted for a cervical cap at your doctor or clinic. Some find the cap difficult to insert or take out. It can move during intercourse, which lessens it's effectiveness. It is less effective for women who have previously given birth. The cervical cap does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 86% with typical use for women who have never given birth. 91% with perfect use.

Sponge:
Description - The sponge is round and soft, about 2 inches wide. Before having intercourse, the sponge is inserted into the vagina. There is a string or handles attached to it, so it can be removed like a tampon. The sponge contains spermicide and surrounds the cervix, so the sperm can't reach the egg.
Pros - The sponge can be bought over the counter, no prescription needed. It does not interrupt sex play because it can be inserted up to 24 hours before having sex. It does not carry hormonal side effects.
Cons - Some find this method messy. If the sponge rips or breaks when being taken out, you need to go to a doctor immediately to have it removed. It may be connected to Toxic Shock Syndrome, and does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 84% with typical use. 91% with perfect use.

Diaphragm:
Description - A diaphragm is a soft rubber dome with a flexible rim that is inserted into the vagina with spermicide. It covers the cervix and stops sperm from joining with an egg.
Pros - There are no major health concerns or hormonal side effects with a diaphragm. There is no interruption of sex play and generally it cannot be felt by either partner. A diaphragm is used only when it's needed, so there is no longterm commitment. It's the type of birth control you can carry around with you (like in a purse).
Cons - A diaphragm requires a fitting (and subsequent refittings) at a doctor or clinic. It can be messy to use. Diaphragms also carry the risk of allergic reaction (to the latex or silicone it's made from), increased bladder infections, and toxic shock syndrome. This method does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 84% with typical use. 94% with perfect use.

The shot:
Description - Depo is a shot, administered by your doctor, typically given in the arm or the butt. The shot is effective for three months at a time. Depo essentially stops the ovaries from producing eggs, so women using this method do not get a regular period.
Pros - The contraceptive is effective starting 24 hours after your first shot. You only need to get a shot every 3 months, and it contains no estrogen.
Cons - The shot has been known to cause weight gain in 70% of women on Depo, and also loss of bone density. You need to go to a doctor or clinic to get the shots. It may cause irregular menstrual bleeding. the Depo Provera shot does not protect against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 97% with typical use. Over 99% with perfect use.

Sterilization:
Description - Sterilization is a surgical procedure that permanently prevents reproductive organs from working, so there is no chance of pregnancy. The male surgery is called a "vasectomy" and blocks the tubes that carry sperm. The female surgery is called "tubal sterilization," but is more commonly referred to as "getting your tubes tied."
Pros - It is a very effective method of preventing pregnancy with few side effects. It is also a one-time procedure.
Cons - Sterilization is a permanent prevention against pregnancy and can only be reversed with another (more complicated) surgery. It is expensive, up to $5,000 for the female procedure, and carries with it the risks of surgery. It offers no protection against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 99.5-99.9%

IUD:
Description - An Intrauterine Device is a small, T-shaped plastic device that contains either copper (ParaGard) or hormones (Mirena). An IUD works by thickening the lining of the uterus, making it more difficult for a sperm to reach the egg effectively.
Pros - An IUD is long-lasting (5-10 years), inexpensive and immediately effective. It requires no daily attention and generally cannot be felt by either partner.
Cons - The IUD needs to be inserted and removed at a doctor or clinic, and there is the risk of piercing the uterine wall during insertion. A young woman's uterus may be unable to hold an IUD. It can cause more difficult menstrual periods. An IUD provides no protection against STDs.
Effectiveness Against Pregnancy - 99% with perfect use. 95% with typical use.

Now, a lot of pro-lifers believe that if a woman has sex, giving birth should be the consequence. Essentially, they’re saying that if you choose to have sex, no matter what, you should be punished with a child. (Although most believe that a child, in any situation, is a gift.)

However, looking  at it logically, this does not make sense. By having sex, you accept the possibility of pregnancy. Obviously, you must, because pregnancy happens sometimes if you have sex. However, you do not accept pregnancy itself.

It is similar to riding in a car. By doing so, you are not accepting death by car crash. You’re not signing your death warrant the second you step into a car and it starts moving. But you must accept the possibility of such a death, because it is possible to get into a car crash and die.

If you have sex, you should not be punished with a baby. Just like if you ride in a car, you should not be punished with death.

V. Personhood

Through all my research and debate about abortion, this it what it has come down to: personhood. Any arguments put forth by either side can be demolished depending on whether or not a fetus is a person.

In my opinion, the moment a fetus becomes sentient, meaning self-aware, it is a person. The abortion debate should deal with when sentience begins and not when life begins. As stated above, human life begins prior to conception, because each sperm and egg cell is a living thing.

Sentience, defined by Dictionary.com, is “the quality or state of being sentient; consciousness.”

Rhawn Joseph stated in his essay about fetal brain and cognitive development that, “Nevertheless, the fetus and neonate appears incapable of thinking, reasoning, understanding, comprehending, or experiencing or generating ‘true’ emotion or any semblance of higher order, forebrain mediated cognitive activity.”

This is why I feel that up until about the third trimester, a fetus is not sentient and therefore not a person. This is also why I support Roe v. Wade and why I believe abortion should remain legal.

VI. Works Cited

Head, Tom. "Top 10 Anti-Abortion Myths." About.Com. 12 June 2008 <civilliberty.about.com/od/abor…>.

Joseph, Rhawn. "Brain-Mind.Com." Brainmind.Com. Brain Research Laboratory. 12 June 2008 <brainmind.com/FetalBrainDevelo…>.

"Sentience - Definitions From Dictionary.Com." Dictionary.Com. Houghton Mifflin Company. 12 June 2008 <dictionary.reference.com/brows…>.

"Pro-Life Myths." Pro-Life. 12 June 2008 <prolife0207.googlepages.com/pr…>.

Myers, Adara, Michelle Gedney, Jenny Madden, and Aileen Gleizer. "The GURL Guide to Birth Control." GURL.Com. 12 June 2008 <www.gurl.com/findout/guides/ar…>.