abortion

Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy, resulting in the expulsion or removal of an embryo or fetus. It can be spontaneous (miscarriage) or induced. Induced abortion is performed to end a pregnancy for a range of reasons, including health considerations, personal choice, or socio-economic factors.

Induced abortion can be medical or surgical. Medical abortion uses medications such as mifepristone followed by misoprostol, typically in early gestation, and is available in many countries up to about 10 weeks. Misoprostol alone is used in some settings. Surgical abortion methods include suction aspiration in the first trimester and dilation and evacuation in the second trimester; procedures are usually performed by trained clinicians in clinical settings.

Induced abortion, when performed legally by trained professionals, is a safe medical procedure with a low rate of serious complications. Mortality risk is lower than that of continuing a pregnancy to term in many contexts. Access barriers, delays, or illegal/unsafe procedures raise the risk of complications and mortality.

Legal status and access to abortion vary widely by country and, in federations, by region. Some jurisdictions permit abortion on request; others require additional conditions; some prohibit it altogether. Access is influenced by cost, availability of providers, state or national laws, and social stigma. In the United States, the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson decision shifted regulatory authority to states, leading to a patchwork of protections and bans.

Historically, abortion has been practiced for centuries. In the 20th century, many countries liberalized access, while others maintained restrictions. Debates commonly center on reproductive autonomy, fetal moral status, and public health, with policies reflecting diverse ethical, cultural, and religious perspectives.