Abortion

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Abortion: Indications

There are several reasons an abortion might be considered:

• The woman may not wish to be pregnant (elective termination)
• The woman's health is endangered by pregnancy (therapeutic abortion)
• There is a chance of an abnormality in the developing fetus (birth defect, genetic abnormality)

The decision to have an abortion is an intensely personal one. Most health care providers recommend competent counseling before making this decision.

Because abortion is a controversial issue in the United States, many women who make such a decision feel as if they cannot share that information with others. Therefore, it is important for women who are contemplating an abortion to examine their existing support system and identify those people who may be capable of helping them through what may be a difficult time.

It is also important that they choose a reputable provider or clinic that advocates choice for women, and is a safe environment in which they can obtain adequate counseling regarding all options for pregnancy resolution, have the procedure performed, and obtain the support and follow-up care that may be necessary after the abortion.