Abortion

Abortion is such a controversial topic. There are so many ways to analyze it and so many things to say about it.

First I want to say: Chile is a secular country, where religious freedom is guaranteed. In abortion discussions I’ve seen politicians who try to stop progress in these topic based on their religious beliefs.  I think, we cannot allow political discussion based on personal opinions or religious norms. This discussion must be done based on facts, research, public health impact, etc. Because no one can impose his/her own lifestyle or religious in others.

In our country , even when is punished , around  60.000 clandestine abortions are made each year. Changes in the law and the implementation would improve the safety of the procedure, causing fewer women deaths and complications. But, I think, it won’t encourage more women to do abortions because who needed it, are already doing it, but in an illicit way,  putting their health at risk. In Canada, where abortions are legal and part of their public health program, de number of abortions is decreasing, also decreased the complications and deaths.

I think, we need a better sexual education and better legislation about abortions. I’m agreeing with the depenalization of abortion in all circumstances, because women have the right of decide if they want to be pregnant and the contraceptive method are not infallible. Because a pregnant woman have right about her body, and she isn`t just an incubator. 

 “The 3 causes” legislation  was a good first step, but is not enough. Because is not fair that poor girls are dying in clandestine clinic and going to jail while rich girls  are paying illicit abortions in private clinics hiding under “appendicitis” .

This is a public health issue that must be continue in discussion, putting aside religious ideals  and taking charge of our reality.