5 Basic Facts About Abortion That You Should Know

Did you know that nearly 1 in 4 women in the United States will have an abortion by the age of 45? And that almost half of all pregnancies in the U.S. are unintended?

Despite being a common medical procedure, abortion remains one of the most misunderstood and politicized aspects of reproductive healthcare.

Misinformation can have real consequences. That’s why it’s crucial to separate myth from fact when discussing abortion. Here are five key facts everyone should know:

Fact #1: There Are Many Personal and Valid Reasons Why People Choose Abortion

People seek abortions for a wide variety of reasons, and each situation is deeply personal. The most commonly reported reason is that they are not financially or emotionally ready to have a child. Other frequent reasons include:

• Already having children and not being able to care for another

• Pursuing education or career goals

• Health concerns for the pregnant person or the fetus

• Pregnancy resulting from rape or abuse

• Being in an unsafe or unstable relationship

If you’re considering your options, visit our page on abortion counseling and support to learn more about how we can help.

Fact #2: Most Abortions Occur Early in Pregnancy

The majority of abortions, about 90%, are performed in the first trimester, which is the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This is a period when the procedure is safest and typically involves less physical and emotional strain.

Early access to abortion is critical. Delays, often caused by legal restrictions or lack of nearby clinics, can push people later into pregnancy, increasing both the cost and complexity of the procedure.

Fact #3: Abortion Is One of the Safest Medical Procedures

When performed legally by a trained healthcare provider, abortion is exceptionally safe. According to medical research:

• The risk of complications from a first-trimester abortion is less than 0.05%.

• Abortion is significantly safer than childbirth, which carries a complication rate roughly 10 times higher.

Modern abortion methods, whether medical (pill-based) or surgical, are supported by decades of clinical research and are endorsed by major medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Fact #4: Abortion Does Not Increase the Risk of Mental Health Issues

A common myth is that abortion causes long-term emotional or psychological harm. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, large-scale studies have found that:

• The vast majority of women feel relief, not regret, after an abortion.

• Denying access to abortion is associated with increased levels of anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem.

Mental health outcomes are more closely linked to a person’s social support system and the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy, not the procedure itself.

Fact #5: Most People Do Not Regret Their Decision

Contrary to popular belief, regret is not common among those who have abortions. A landmark study known as the Turnaway Study found that 95% of participants felt that abortion was the right decision for them, even years later.

The decision to have an abortion is often made with thoughtful consideration of one’s health, future, and family. Respecting that choice is essential to upholding bodily autonomy and reproductive rights.

Conclusion: Facts Matter More Than Opinions

Abortion is a deeply personal and often emotional topic. While public debate continues, one thing is clear: access to accurate, evidence-based information is essential for making informed decisions.

Everyone deserves to understand the facts—free from stigma, judgment, or misinformation.

If you’re considering abortion or want to speak with a professional, schedule a confidential appointment at the Women’s Center of Hyde Park in Tampa. Our experienced team is here to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental care every step of the way.

They can provide personalized care, support, and answers to your questions in a confidential and respectful environment.

The Fort Lauderdale Women’s Center is Offering The One Hour Abortion Pill Procedure – 3 to 14 Weeks. Patients who qualify may receive a significant discount in the price of the procedure if they meet certain criteria.

Call Us Now For Same Day Appointment.

Dr James S Pendergraft | Orlando Women’s Center | Abortion Pill Clinic | Articles On Abortion