Induced abortion refers to the intentional termination of a pregnancy through the use of medication or a medical procedure. It should be distinguished from a miscarriage, which occurs naturally when a pregnancy ends. The law permits women to make the choice of having an abortion prior to the fetus being able to survive outside the mother’s body. Nevertheless, certain states have imposed restrictions on this right. Abortion may be performed for medical purposes, such as to preserve the mother’s life or health, as well as for personal reasons.
Induced abortion refers to the deliberate termination of a pregnancy through artificial means, either by the pregnant woman herself or by a third party. It is distinct from spontaneous abortion, which is the natural expulsion of an embryo or fetus before it can survive. In 1973, the Supreme Court recognized a woman’s right to choose to end her pregnancy as a privacy right derived from the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment. However, states have the authority to restrict this right by enacting laws that prohibit public facilities or employees from performing abortions, restrict the use of public funds for family planning that includes abortion-related information, or impose strict limitations on abortion after the fetus reaches viability. Induced abortions can take various forms, such as therapeutic abortion (performed to protect the mother’s life or health), late-term abortion (carried out in the later stages of pregnancy, typically after the middle of the second trimester), and partial-birth abortion (involving the partial delivery of a viable fetus before its destruction). These examples highlight the diverse circumstances in which induced abortions may be performed. It is important to recognize that the legality and accessibility of induced abortions differ across countries and states, and the decision to have an abortion is a personal and often intricate one.
Yes, abortion is legal in all states under the landmark Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade.
Abortion can be performed up to the point of viability, which is typically around 24 weeks of pregnancy.
It depends on the state. Some states require parental consent or notification, while others do not.
No, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against an employee for having an abortion.
No, it is illegal for anyone to force someone to have an abortion against their will.
No, it is not a crime to have an abortion.
Yes, a pre-existing medical condition does not necessarily prevent someone from getting an abortion.
Yes, non-citizens have the same right to access abortion as U.S. citizens.
It depends on the state. Some states prohibit Medicaid from covering abortion, while others allow it.
Yes, military personnel have the right to access abortion, but it may not be covered by military insurance.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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