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cynatnite

(31,011 posts)
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:16 AM Nov 2013

I don't understand when someone says "abortion should be rare"...

I don't know if they're higher now than say 10 years ago. Maybe abortions would be fewer if we were doing a better job in preventing unwanted pregnancies in the first place.

I think that all forms of contraception should be free. In fact, I think birth control should be given out freely on demand at all high schools. I also think comprehensive sex education should begin at 11-12 years old at school. It should include how to protect yourself and be safe.

I also think that should a woman want an abortion, she should have easy access to it without shame or explanation. The decision is between her and her doctor. Period.

I have had an abortion and for me, it was not an easy decision to make. It was an emotional decision that took serious contemplation and it was mine and mine alone to make. This was a potential life. That was how I viewed it. I don't know if other women had the same difficulties that I did when it came to something like this.

I do believe that most women don't make these decisions lightly.

I don't regret my abortion. It was an elective medical procedure that I felt was best for the situation I was in at the time. While at the time, it was an emotional one, I got over it and moved on with my life.

Regardless of the rates of abortion...no woman should be forced to be pregnant against her will.

116 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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I don't understand when someone says "abortion should be rare"... (Original Post) cynatnite Nov 2013 OP
I agree with all your points, completely. CaliforniaPeggy Nov 2013 #1
Post removed Post removed Nov 2013 #2
What the Hell? Whiskeytide Nov 2013 #5
Only that it's a "undercooked meat/rare" joke. Chan790 Nov 2013 #9
I got that... Whiskeytide Nov 2013 #13
It was inappropriate which was why I ignored it. n/t cynatnite Nov 2013 #16
It was mysteriously: freshwest Nov 2013 #54
IMO the sentiment behind that statement teenagebambam Nov 2013 #3
Speaking for myself, when I say they should be rare Revanchist Nov 2013 #4
A lot of my friends had them and it was a tough decision for all of them Warpy Nov 2013 #6
I can't remember feeling relief, but I never felt any guilt. cynatnite Nov 2013 #17
Here's what your avatar had to say on the subject: Nye Bevan Nov 2013 #7
That was an entire generation ago. a lot has happened since. PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #12
The year 2005 was "an entire generation ago"? Nye Bevan Nov 2013 #30
Shouldn't any expensive or risk medical procedure be rare if it could be avoided with prevention? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #8
Abortions are generally neither. LeftyMom Nov 2013 #10
I actually had a friend who ended up with complications due to a surgical abortion. KittyWampus Nov 2013 #18
I had a life threatning reaction to a common antibiotic. LeftyMom Nov 2013 #24
Abortions are cheaper and safer than condoms? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #22
If you're not going to argue in good faith I wish you a lovely evening. LeftyMom Nov 2013 #25
That is exactly the entire argument you responded to NoOneMan Nov 2013 #26
You compared abortion to open heart surgery, which is what I replied to. LeftyMom Nov 2013 #27
Did I? Beyond being something that could be avoided with prevention, no, I did not. NoOneMan Nov 2013 #31
"Of course they should be rare, just like bypasses." -you, upthread LeftyMom Nov 2013 #33
Yes, ANYTHING that has a less invasive, less costly alternative should be rare NoOneMan Nov 2013 #34
Abortion isn't an alternative to contraception. It's an alternative to PREGNANCY. LeftyMom Nov 2013 #38
So is contraception and education not an alternative/prevention to pregnancy? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #41
Strawman argument Lordquinton Nov 2013 #36
Birth control and eduction is not an alternative/prevention to abortion? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #37
You are confused here Lordquinton Nov 2013 #42
There are lots of ways to make any procedure rare NoOneMan Nov 2013 #47
No one is arguing against preventing pregnancy when it's not desired. cui bono Nov 2013 #58
Birth control is a prevention of unwanted pregnancies. NoOneMan Nov 2013 #65
It can be both Lordquinton Nov 2013 #59
"they shouldn't be discussed together" NoOneMan Nov 2013 #66
You skipped the first paragraph Lordquinton Nov 2013 #105
By surrendering and cowering to a word you are thereby enabling them by giving it power and validity NoOneMan Nov 2013 #106
Abortion is sure cheaper than condoms in UK. And early abortion is not a "surgical procedure". idwiyo Nov 2013 #44
Huh? But the NHS is on the hook for it. It is reflected in per capita health costs NoOneMan Nov 2013 #50
The state shouldn't have anything to do with the actual medical procedure. Her body, Her choice. idwiyo Nov 2013 #60
Of, for fuck's sake. How about the state ensure its legal, safe and rare? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #64
How about state ensure it's safe, legal, on demand, and as often as requested. idwiyo Nov 2013 #68
Rare was part of the Democratic platform! NoOneMan Nov 2013 #75
was. was... as in isn't anymore. PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #91
Change the word YOU use. Leave the rest of the pro-choicers the fuck alone NoOneMan Nov 2013 #92
Simmer down, cheif. Do you not see, even a little, how using the "rare" language can be harmful? PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #93
In a narrow frame, yes, as harmful as any word can be in a narrow frame NoOneMan Nov 2013 #94
Continuing to use harmful language will also draw negative reactions. PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #95
"Calling for it to be "rare" proposes that there is something wrong with abortion" NoOneMan Nov 2013 #96
I never ever ever said you or ANYONE who uses the phrase was such a thing. PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #97
What do you propose to do with women who refuse to take pill? Deny them abortion? idwiyo Nov 2013 #107
Nothing. Not a fucking thing. Its a choice NoOneMan Nov 2013 #108
Choice means abortion should be free, safe, legal, on demand, and as often as requested. idwiyo Nov 2013 #110
I agree on all parts NoOneMan Nov 2013 #111
I question "so often" part. No one actually has any idea what "often" is or isn't. idwiyo Nov 2013 #112
Oh god. Fucking semantics police NoOneMan Nov 2013 #113
Spare me your condescension. By using "rare" and "so often" you ARE implying that there are too many idwiyo Nov 2013 #114
Haha. By suggesting what I am implying you are just creating a strawman NoOneMan Nov 2013 #115
Your "ignore" as a badge of honour! Never mind that you WILL read my responses to your posts. :) idwiyo Nov 2013 #116
I think it's neither "pig" nor ignorant." phylny Nov 2013 #72
take for instance the abortion pill, still an abortion but no knife La Lioness Priyanka Nov 2013 #11
You know... NoOneMan Nov 2013 #40
What do you mean when you say "long, unnecessary cycles of oral contraceptives"? n/t cynatnite Nov 2013 #43
Exactly what I said NoOneMan Nov 2013 #46
I see your point... cynatnite Nov 2013 #52
Maybe when one has sex very infrequently, as one is not in a relationship. idwiyo Nov 2013 #48
Did I miss something? newcriminal Nov 2013 #100
Yes. Her body, her choice. idwiyo Nov 2013 #104
or dangers associated with actually giving birth. nt La Lioness Priyanka Nov 2013 #86
No other medical procedure endangers the lives of the medical professionals involved. Cassidy Nov 2013 #45
This thread is against those that want abortion "safe, legal and rare" NoOneMan Nov 2013 #51
first trimester abortions are the safest of all surgical procedures. CTyankee Nov 2013 #71
They are not safer than other methods of preventing unwanted pregnancies, nor cheaper NoOneMan Nov 2013 #74
I wasn't talking about prevention as much as the safety of the procedure. And since any CTyankee Nov 2013 #76
Of course. Instead you argue a narrow frame to divisively fight with other pro-choice people NoOneMan Nov 2013 #78
well, my bad for writing "any" instead of "no" in that sentence. Shoulda caught that... CTyankee Nov 2013 #88
Got it NoOneMan Nov 2013 #89
well, to be fair, I used to work for Planned Parenthood of CT and folks there were pretty CTyankee Nov 2013 #90
"Rare" in this context means different things to different people. ZombieHorde Nov 2013 #14
Thank you. PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #15
That's the political genius and moral cowardice of the phrase. LeftyMom Nov 2013 #19
there is no moral cowardice. There's mostly an attempt by some to twist the issue away KittyWampus Nov 2013 #21
well said. PeaceNikki Nov 2013 #23
It's never bothered me to hear people say the phrase at all... cynatnite Nov 2013 #35
So why do people want it to mean the worse? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #82
nailed it Vattel Nov 2013 #84
I had not thought of the word "rare" like that... Whiskeytide Nov 2013 #28
You break it down very well, as usual. nomorenomore08 Nov 2013 #39
Yeeeeeeah. Why is there any kind of snappy phrase hanging round abortion anyway? sibelian Nov 2013 #109
Sorry, the issue are far right control freaks, not liberals trying to improve reproductive choices KittyWampus Nov 2013 #20
Good post, agree with all your points ! nt steve2470 Nov 2013 #29
I believe that it should be safe, legal, rare but always available on demand. xmas74 Nov 2013 #32
Big 'Ol.... DeSwiss Nov 2013 #49
I am sorry you had to make that choice, but TxDemChem Nov 2013 #53
"abortion should be rare" whttevrr Nov 2013 #55
Is an abortion the best, most efficeint, and safest way to reduce the rates of unwanted pregnancies? Agnosticsherbet Nov 2013 #56
"deal with an" suggests a pregnancy already exists NoOneMan Nov 2013 #57
Because I see the loss of life as regrettable but feel the woman's autonomy is paramount LostOne4Ever Nov 2013 #61
"some people here feel the need to talk to us as if we were anti-choice" NoOneMan Nov 2013 #67
Agreed. Xolodno Nov 2013 #62
Unwanted Pregnancies Should Be Rare eShirl Nov 2013 #63
Birth control should be easily accessible to all and rendered shame-free through education alphafemale Nov 2013 #69
I never got the shame of buying protection. Always loved it, actually. sir pball Nov 2013 #77
Pregnancy s/b rare. We've got too many damn people as it is. nt valerief Nov 2013 #70
Undoubtably NoOneMan Nov 2013 #80
In reading the threads on this topic boston bean Nov 2013 #73
It is an invasive medical procedure. Of course it carries risks and can be traumatic NoOneMan Nov 2013 #79
au contraire boston bean Nov 2013 #85
I agree with all of the measures you suggest. bvar22 Nov 2013 #81
This isn't so clear cut NoOneMan Nov 2013 #83
Not Clear Cut???!!! bvar22 Nov 2013 #98
Did you read my response? NoOneMan Nov 2013 #99
Yes I read your response. bvar22 Nov 2013 #101
I don't understand why you would want to make abortion rare if the alternative produces more harm NoOneMan Nov 2013 #102
It looks like you've gotten a lot of explanations. LWolf Nov 2013 #87
Why would anyone want unwanted pregnancies to be common? jberryhill Nov 2013 #103

CaliforniaPeggy

(149,595 posts)
1. I agree with all your points, completely.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:30 AM
Nov 2013

I'm sorry you had to go through it, but I'm glad you were able to get over it and move on with your life.

I say abortion should be rare because there is ample education and contraception so that abortion is less necessary. But of course, I think any woman who wants one should be able to get it without shame or coercion.

Response to cynatnite (Original post)

 

Chan790

(20,176 posts)
9. Only that it's a "undercooked meat/rare" joke.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:53 AM
Nov 2013

DU needs a emoticon for :lame:

(Not you, bad meat puns.)

Whiskeytide

(4,461 posts)
13. I got that...
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:59 AM
Nov 2013

... but I just thought the OP topic was rather serious and personal, and the "joke" seemed wildly inappropriate and juvenile.

freshwest

(53,661 posts)
54. It was mysteriously:
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:09 AM
Nov 2013


But back on the topic, and my position, which covers more than abortion itself, as it's the context:

I'd agree it should be 'rare' and AFAIK, it most rare in countries with UHC, full access to the morning after pill, contraception, sex education and abortion.

But over all of that is the lack of stigma or religious objection to the practice, but seeing it as it should be seen, the business of the people involved.

And that in valuing the life of the mother, they also value the life of the child after it is born. There is no denial of food, education, health care or housing due to the circumstances of one's birth or their social position.

There are even incentives to have children with generous maternity leave, no loss of jobs, a stipend paid per child just because the child was born, and none of this cruel shell game played on would be mothers. They do not have to worry about being impoverished or their children suffering from want as Americans do.

Isn't this the utopia the 'pro-life until born' crowd says will happen? While doing everything to insure that the life of the mother and child is punishing?

My argument with that faux choice crowd is that they will not put their money where their big, self-righteous mouths are.

They are against taxes and government, but that is what is needed to take care of the people they don't know and will never meet, and many people they don't like at all and would not welcome into their homes.

That's what the social safety net is, welcoming a child into the family of America, with a home, care and prospects.

Until they enthusiastically support the government, the social safety and rights of women to decide what they can handle to give their children a good life, they can STHU. They are nothing but busybodies with too much time on their hands and nothing better to do.

Also their arrogance knows no bounds, as they cannot comprehend how diverse a country this is, and things are not simple.

They cannot honestly claim to support the unborn when they refuse to support their parents, both of them, with health care, employment and the necessities. That includes the poor, those on welfare, the immigrant, those on drugs or with other issues.

Until then, they are just mentally masturbating and making themselves feel superior. They get no respect from me until they show some to others.

teenagebambam

(1,592 posts)
3. IMO the sentiment behind that statement
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:40 AM
Nov 2013

Is exactly as you've described it..a wish that education and contraception were more encouraged and available, so that unwanted pregnancies didn't happen in the first place. Republicans like to talk as if people who are pro-choice are equating abortion WITH contraception, which is absurd and false in my experience.

Revanchist

(1,375 posts)
4. Speaking for myself, when I say they should be rare
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:46 AM
Nov 2013

I think all forms of birth control should be available

I think all students should receive comprehensive and meaningful sex education, no abstinence only programs

I think we should do everything we can to change the culture, especially among high-school and college age males in regards to rape and forced sexual intercourse

If we can reduce unwanted pregnancies to those that occur to birth control failure and none of the above reasons that will make the need for abortions rare. It's changing the societal reasons to reduce the medical need.

Warpy

(111,253 posts)
6. A lot of my friends had them and it was a tough decision for all of them
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:52 AM
Nov 2013

so you're not alone there. When it was all over, they felt relief, not guilt. They all knew they weren't prepared to produce and raise that particular fetus.

I read somewhere that abortion rates are fairly flat, whether or not there were laws against it. The rate of women being maimed or killed for illegal abortions is much higher, though, and that's the point: antiabortion laws kill women.

So would the expectation that they should be rare. That doesn't match reality where people are flawed and make mistakes and no birth control save sterilization is 100% effective.

Abortion should be safe and legal, period.

Nye Bevan

(25,406 posts)
7. Here's what your avatar had to say on the subject:
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:52 AM
Nov 2013

In 1987, Kennedy delivered an impassioned speech condemning Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork as a "right-wing extremist" and warning that "Robert Bork's America" would be one marked by back alley abortions and other backward practices. Kennedy's strong opposition to Bork's nomination was important to the Senate's rejection of Bork's candidacy. In recent years, he has argued that much of the debate over abortion is a false dichotomy. Speaking at the National Press Club in 2005, he remarked, "Surely, we can all agree that abortion should be rare, and that we should do all we can to help women avoid the need to face that decision." He voted against the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_positions_of_Ted_Kennedy

PeaceNikki

(27,985 posts)
12. That was an entire generation ago. a lot has happened since.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:58 AM
Nov 2013

Including sweeping restrictions in every state, access much more limited and evolution.

The national party removed that language in 2008 because it is harmful to women and the cause.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
8. Shouldn't any expensive or risk medical procedure be rare if it could be avoided with prevention?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:53 AM
Nov 2013

Or are we all just made of money and such self-loathing that we love going under the knife? Doy. Of course they should be rare, just like bypasses. Work to create a world where health care dollars aren't being thrown at problems that didn't need to be there in the first place.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
10. Abortions are generally neither.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:56 AM
Nov 2013

Certainly they're nothing like a bypass. For one thing the procedure is infinitely less invasive, and for another the patients are generally decades younger and in considerably better health. And the recovery is hours or days instead of months, the price difference great enough to cover a luxury car or two.

What a pig ignorant comparison.

 

KittyWampus

(55,894 posts)
18. I actually had a friend who ended up with complications due to a surgical abortion.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:05 AM
Nov 2013

So while it's infinitely "less invasive" it is still risky.

And I didn't have any complications and it still sucked.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
24. I had a life threatning reaction to a common antibiotic.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:08 AM
Nov 2013

That doesn't mean that antibiotics are dangerous, it means that rare things happen to somebody. The plural of anecdote is not data.

Legal, regulated abortion is very, very safe. Far safer than pregnancy, as a matter of fact.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
22. Abortions are cheaper and safer than condoms?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:08 AM
Nov 2013

Or education? Or birth control? (and the onus on all of such should be squarely on the state IMO)

Well shit. Erase what I said. I guess there aren't cheaper and safer alternatives to abortions. Go ahead. Doy. I guess I am ignorant.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
25. If you're not going to argue in good faith I wish you a lovely evening.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:10 AM
Nov 2013

Nobody's arguing for abortion as an alternative to contraception.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
26. That is exactly the entire argument you responded to
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:13 AM
Nov 2013
Shouldn't any expensive or risk medical procedure be rare if it could be avoided with prevention?


You replied that abortions were not expensive or risky.......... but in what context? Are you in the context I mentioned: "if it could be avoided with prevention". If so, then we examine such alternatives that the state could promote such as free birth control and proper education on their usage. Your reply only makes sense if such alternatives to this procedure are not cheaper and safer.

They are. So they should always be promoted as prevention! And what is the purpose of prevention? To make the alternative RARE.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
27. You compared abortion to open heart surgery, which is what I replied to.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:15 AM
Nov 2013

It's a painfully stupid analogy, if it's not deliberately misleading.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
31. Did I? Beyond being something that could be avoided with prevention, no, I did not.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:17 AM
Nov 2013

That is the only similarity I was promoting between abortion and any other invasive surgery: safer, less-invasive alternatives/preventions exist in both cases (not that each case shares the same degree of risk)! That's it. So I bid the straw man adieu

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
34. Yes, ANYTHING that has a less invasive, less costly alternative should be rare
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:20 AM
Nov 2013

Context. Its amazing. You are pretending there is something in that text that isn't there. Its as ridiculous as its humorous. Read the entire post. Check the context I am in (regarding prevention and alternatives) and use that thing between your ears.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
41. So is contraception and education not an alternative/prevention to pregnancy?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:29 AM
Nov 2013

Are you sure that's just not a bumper sticker?

Lordquinton

(7,886 posts)
36. Strawman argument
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:22 AM
Nov 2013

Those aren't alternatives, and it's also a right wing talking point. Abortion isn't birth control, it's a medical procedure that might be needed even if you are on birth control, and using condoms.

Abortion isn't birth control

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
37. Birth control and eduction is not an alternative/prevention to abortion?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:24 AM
Nov 2013

So if the state then promoted more sec education and free birth control, would you suggest the abortion rates would be constant?

Lordquinton

(7,886 posts)
42. You are confused here
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:30 AM
Nov 2013

Abortion is not contraception, there are many reasons for it. We need both, we don't have to choose. Confusing the two puts you squarely into the RWTP area.

Texas is doing a great job of making it rare, should they keep going?

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
47. There are lots of ways to make any procedure rare
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:39 AM
Nov 2013

You can lock people out who need the procedure, or you can employ methods that prevent people from needing such procedure in the first place. If Texas is doing the former, then no, they aren't.

I don't have any issue with the later. Any sane society should endorse the idea of prevention and alternatives

cui bono

(19,926 posts)
58. No one is arguing against preventing pregnancy when it's not desired.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:57 AM
Nov 2013

But that is not the same as saying that birth control is an alternative to abortion. That's a false comparison. Pregnancies happen even when preventive measures are taken. So what then? Abortion isn't the alternative, it's a solution for some to an entirely different situation than the one for which you use birth control.

Also, some people need abortion due to problems in pregnancy, pregnancy from rape, how would birth control be an alternative then?

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
65. Birth control is a prevention of unwanted pregnancies.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:40 AM
Nov 2013

And bend yourself backwards with your inane framings, but less unwanted pregnancies == less abortions. Therefpre, birth control very much directly impacts the abortion rate of a population


Pregnancies happen even when preventive measures are taken. So what then?


Yep. Thats the "safe and legal" part. Shit happens. That's why the state ensures the choice is there regardless


Also, some people need abortion due to problems in pregnancy, pregnancy from rape, how would birth control be an alternative then?


What I don't understand is why a pro-choice person is arguing these inane points with another pro-choice person who simply is annoyed at this lame politically correct war against the word "rare". We both fully endorse the right of a woman to have an abortion I imagine. We both understand there are exceptions ensuring it should always be legal and safe, and these exceptions ensure it is always minimally "rare" instead of "never". I imagine that we also understand that these wonderous exceptions aside, choice is choice and a special circumstance isn't even needed to exercise it. Period. End of story.

What strikes me as insane is that by suggesting a state should seek to reduce the number of abortion through prevention (like free birth control and education), people need to come like I am some sort of right win nutjob against abortion. You couldn't be further from the truth. So to answer that, so fucking what? If there is some contingent of pro-choice liberals who want abortion to be "safe, legal and rare", you need to understand that by whatever you personally perceive "rare" to mean, "safe and legal" NO MATTER WHAT ensure that person always and forever endorses that under any circumstance, abortion should be safe and legal. For the love of god.

Lordquinton

(7,886 posts)
59. It can be both
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:02 AM
Nov 2013

They are not the same thing. And with the word "Rare" having multiple meanings using it gives credence to the tea party, because they take it as a sign of agreement with their version of the word. By using it you support their position whether you like it or not.

And to sum up:

Abortion is not the same as contraception

they shouldn't be discussed together. Reduced abortions is a side effect of education and access to stuff, the goal is a healthy populace, not the reason we should have it.

Abortion is an important, private, medical procedure that should never be restricted or up for debate.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
66. "they shouldn't be discussed together"
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:51 AM
Nov 2013

I absolutely disagree. Contraception reduces unwanted pregnancies. Some percentage of unwanted pregnancies result in abortion. Without even making a judgment call on any such procedure, its clear that more access to contraception and education regarding birth control would directly reduce the incidence rate of abortions in a population. Now, the only reason that could be desirable from a view congruent with liberal thought is if such a reduction reduced harm and allowed health care resources to be better allocated to promoting better aggregate health outcomes. And that is precisely what I have stated entirely in this thread to such chagrin.

So yes, while abortion is not the same as contraception, they both fundementally have the exact same function in a society at large: to reduce the incidence of pregnancy (for whatever reason). In fact, the usage of the former is very logically inversely proportional to the usage of the later. So while you may want to frame this debate in your own tidy box, they two subjects are immensely intertwined from a public health perspective.


Abortion is an important, private, medical procedure that should never be restricted or up for debate.


Now, I agree 100%. I am not for restricting it whatsoever nor debating its legal status.

Lordquinton

(7,886 posts)
105. You skipped the first paragraph
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:52 PM
Nov 2013

The one describing how language works, and by defending the use, you are enabling the Tea Party to continue to make it "rare"

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
106. By surrendering and cowering to a word you are thereby enabling them by giving it power and validity
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:56 PM
Nov 2013

I am really curious if this dreaded "Tea Party" language will still be used in political discourse in 5 years (any more than the "blue dogs" used to be talked about). Its funny how much validity people give this ridiculous footnote in history.

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
44. Abortion is sure cheaper than condoms in UK. And early abortion is not a "surgical procedure".
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:30 AM
Nov 2013

Education, & birth control pills are great and Pills should be free. Regardless, it's up to a particular woman to decide what she wants to use and what is the safest method of birth control for her. Her body, her choice. If one decides to use vacuum extraction (where available) once every month to get rid of menstruation and to eliminate the possibility of unwanted pregnancy, why the hell not?

Good source of info is below:

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Abortion/Pages/How-is-it-performed.aspx

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
50. Huh? But the NHS is on the hook for it. It is reflected in per capita health costs
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:45 AM
Nov 2013

The NHS would save a whole lot stocking up and sending out free condoms for everyone.


Regardless, it's up to a particular woman to decide what she wants to use and what is the safest method of birth control for her.


Uh, sure. But its up to the state to determine ways to reduce harm and promote the most positive health outcomes with finite resources. It cannot do that if it does not promote a society that is somewhat reflective of its overall mission. It is up to the state therefore to implement policies that reduce usage of risky/expensive procedure not via rationing, but via prevention and education of the population.

Is this a liberal site or a libertarian site?

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
60. The state shouldn't have anything to do with the actual medical procedure. Her body, Her choice.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:09 AM
Nov 2013

It's up to the doctors to advise the woman about the risks, but ultimately it's up to her to decide what she wants to be done to her body. It always should be between the woman and her doctor.

Condoms and BC are not 100% effective. Other methods like levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system are invasive and also can fail. Abortion should be free, on request, and as often as needed. It's really that simple.

When it comes to paying for it, I am a taxpayer, and I will be happy to pay even more to NHS just to make sure every woman will have a choice when they need it.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
64. Of, for fuck's sake. How about the state ensure its legal, safe and rare?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:31 AM
Nov 2013

That's what the state can do. Aside from the actual procedure (safe/legal) the state can promote policies to make unwanted pregnancies more unlikely by funding birth control and sex education. And don't say it fucking can't


Condoms and BC are not 100% effective


No crap. But do they reduce the rate of unwanted pregnancies, and thereby, abortions from those unwanted pregnancies? Yes.


When it comes to paying for it, I am a taxpayer, and I will be happy to pay even more


Everyone can be happy as a clam to pay for necessary procedures. But they should be even happier to pay for cost effective programs that make more expensive procedures less likely to occur. That way, everyone saves money and trauma.

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
68. How about state ensure it's safe, legal, on demand, and as often as requested.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 07:39 AM
Nov 2013

Because "rare" part is RW forced-birthers bullshit, doesn't matter who preach it.

Women request abortions when they need them. It's not up to you, state, or anyone else to decide when, and how often.

It's up to an individual woman to decide what kind of birth control she wants to use, not you, state, or anyone else.

Oh, and please, just stuff the "trauma" part right where it came from. I am sick and tired of listening to the bullshit of how it's such a "difficult and traumatic" experience. No, to me it's no more "traumatic" than getting a treatment for parasitic worm infestation. It's not a damn "baby", it's a clump of cells.

I also happen to know enough women who had terminations, and none of them expressed anything more than relief, though I wouldn't be surprised it's different in US. Majority of Americans can only tolerate abortion if women suffer before and after. Preferably both physically and mentally as a form of punishment for having recreational sex. It's unthinkable otherwise. Ever thought how many women might get mental trauma not because they had an abortion, but because they don't feel the way they are told they should feel?

Oh, and stuff "cost effectiveness" same place as "rare" and "trauma". If someone wants to use abortion as birth control, it's their business, and there is nothing wrong with it. Her body, Her choice. Cost effective enough for me.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
75. Rare was part of the Democratic platform!
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 12:49 PM
Nov 2013

It wasn't part of any right wing shit until a divisive group of DUer decided to force feed new code language down everyone's throat this month. Now the meme has taken a life of its own.


Oh, and stuff "cost effectiveness" same place as "rare" and "trauma". If someone wants to use abortion as birth control, it's their business, and there is nothing wrong with it. Her body, Her choice. Cost effective enough for me.


Thats a libertarian load of shit. The state should very well be concerned with harm reduction and efficient allocation of health care resources.

PeaceNikki

(27,985 posts)
91. was. was... as in isn't anymore.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:03 PM
Nov 2013

Obviously you're not very deeply committed to reproductive freedom or this concept would not be new to you. You're way off base if you think it's an attempt to be divisive. It's It's about the general conversation of reproductive rights and why we should change the words we use to remove the stigma.

The national party did, we here at DU can as well. I had a wonderful, productive, adult conversation just yesterday here - at least 2 people said they hadn't thought about it like that and see the point. This is a discussion board, it's cool to have discussions sometimes.

The Democratic Party dropped the "safe, legal, rare" language from the platform in 2008 for all of these reasons. Get with the program.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
92. Change the word YOU use. Leave the rest of the pro-choicers the fuck alone
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:08 PM
Nov 2013

Stop trying to divide DU with this crap and bullying people onto your language train. I ain't buying that crap anymore.

I haven't been around since 2008 so I really don't give a damn about the program you are trying to force everyone into

PeaceNikki

(27,985 posts)
93. Simmer down, cheif. Do you not see, even a little, how using the "rare" language can be harmful?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:11 PM
Nov 2013

The widespread endorsement of “rare” in context of abortion both produces and reproduces stigma. A recent review of mental health and abortion found profound psychological implications of stigma. According to experimental studies stigmatization can create negative cognitions, emotions, and behavioral reactions that can adversely affect social, psychological, and biological functioning. Societal stigma is seen as particularly pernicious because it leads to internalized stigma in which women adopt the negative societal beliefs and stereotypes about themselves.

There have been massive attacks in every state on abortion since 1989. And they are getting worse. And, as such, I feel it's incredibly important to discuss how our language forms our societal beliefs and vice versa.

And, you if you aren't interested in discussing, listening or growing, kindly step away from the conversation rather than being an asshole.

You're the one bullying here. I am trying to discuss.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
94. In a narrow frame, yes, as harmful as any word can be in a narrow frame
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:15 PM
Nov 2013

But I don't share that frame of this word war. I feel that "safe and legal" damn well provides clarity to exactly what people mean, despite them wishing the utilization of it was rare or not. "Safe and legal" damn well means unfettered and unrestricted. Period.


And, you if you aren't interested in discussing, listening or growing, kindly step away from the conversation rather than being an asshole.


With all due respect, I'm just tired of it. I've been discussing this for a bit, but any attempt to is met with a multitude of strawman and personal attacks that are trying to paint pro-choicers as right wing lunatics. So yeah, that gets old. Its not welcomed and its not going to generate a good reaction.

PeaceNikki

(27,985 posts)
95. Continuing to use harmful language will also draw negative reactions.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:19 PM
Nov 2013

And doing so also "gets old".

That phrase was uber effective in the early 90's when it was coined. We've grown as a nation, society and party and now, more than ever, need to change the massive shift to sweeping restrictions on abortion. And a big part of that means making it accessible.

Saying it should be "rare" indicates - clearly - that it is happening more than it should be and that there are 'good' and 'bad' abortions. Abortion is one of the most stigmatized events of a woman's life and the widespread "rare" mantra propagates that.

Calling for it to be "rare" proposes that there is something wrong with abortion. It places the procedure as a very different type of health care. One in which the goal is reduced use rather than expanded access and enhanced quality. And this has contributed to the significant decline in the number of locations where abortions are performed in the United States. The result is also fewer physicians - good physicians - who are even taught abortion care. Less than half of all OB/GYN's residency programs offer training in abortion care.

Saying it should be rare legitimizes efforts to restrict access to abortion.

Prior to 1989, laws interfering with a woman’s right to abortion were ruled unconstitutional. The shift in the composition of the Court under the Reagan and Bush I administrations led to the 1989 and 1992 Webster and Casey Supreme Court decisions establishing a threshold of “undue burden” for the constitutionality of state-based restrictions. Under this new legal regime, states can demonstrate a preference against abortion through the implementation of waiting periods, parental
involvement, mandatory information, and scripted provider speech requirements; since 1994, almost every state has done so. These laws vary in their construction and studying the effects of these laws is difficult but suggests that additional barriers to abortion disproportionately affect traditionally vulnerable populations.24 For example, the most severe waiting periods require two in-person visits to the clinic with a prescribed time between visits. In a world where many women lack paid sick leave and childcare, access to a provider in their community, and affordable transportation/lodging, a two-visit requirement may be insurmountable to some women.

Using this phrase is a linguistic trick of affirming the right to abortion while simultaneously devaluing it is both harmful and ineffective as a strategy to securing rights. The desire to help an individual woman achieve her reproductive desires by avoiding an abortion is a laudable goal, not because it reduces the need for abortion, but because it is what that woman wants for her life.

So - no, I will not shut up. Or go away.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
96. "Calling for it to be "rare" proposes that there is something wrong with abortion"
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:24 PM
Nov 2013

There is something inherently wrong from a liberal public health perspective with any procedure that could cause harm or be more costly than preventative alternatives that accomplish the same purpose (in this case, such a purpose is to reduce unwanted pregnancies)


So - no, I will not shut up. Or go away.

Yep, same here. And that doesn't make me an anti-choice troll. I'm sure you'll deal just fine.

PeaceNikki

(27,985 posts)
97. I never ever ever said you or ANYONE who uses the phrase was such a thing.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:26 PM
Nov 2013

Quite the contrary. I want the people who support choice to fully engage and understand the power and stigma of the word.

Some have and grown. Others... are combative like you.

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
107. What do you propose to do with women who refuse to take pill? Deny them abortion?
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 03:58 AM
Nov 2013

It's not your, state, or anyone else business to dictate what woman should do in this case. Abortions are safe and effective method of birth control. There is nothing wrong with having abortion and insisting otherwise is pure forsed-birther authoritarian bullshit.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
108. Nothing. Not a fucking thing. Its a choice
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 04:21 AM
Nov 2013

Its always been. But the state should make all choices easy and available, including prevention, in order to minimize harm and costs. Period.

You don't punish. You educate and help


There is nothing wrong with having abortion and insisting otherwise is pure forsed-birther authoritarian bullshit.


Stop talking in ridiculous absolutes. I've clearly laid out reasonable merit to seek that it is rare. In my opinion, from a public health perspective, there is even more wrong with actually bringing and unplanned pregnancy to term (in terms of costs and harm). Both those options are not better than preventing the unplanned pregnancy in the first place.

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
110. Choice means abortion should be free, safe, legal, on demand, and as often as requested.
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 07:20 PM
Nov 2013

And free of any stigma.

So, please stuff that "rare" part right where it belongs.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
111. I agree on all parts
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 07:50 PM
Nov 2013

What I do maybe differ from you is that I think the state should do what it can to reduce unplanned pregnancies so that it doesn't have to be requested so often.

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
112. I question "so often" part. No one actually has any idea what "often" is or isn't.
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 08:09 PM
Nov 2013

Same as "rare". This is why I use "as often as needed".

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
113. Oh god. Fucking semantics police
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 08:15 PM
Nov 2013

What approved acceptable language are we lessers allowed to use to suggest in a politically correct manner that we wish for the state to promote programs to reduce the incidence of unplanned pregnancies, and thereby, abortions?

We obviously can't say that we wish the state to make them more rare. We can't say we wish the state would ensure they didn't happen so often (which doesn't imply they happen a lot, but that we wish for them to happen less). Oh, how can we not hurt your feelings?

The bottom fucking line is that in a perfect world abortions would be entirely unheard of (yep, rare) except for medical needs. Shame for a liberal suggesting that the state seek to make a more perfect world

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
114. Spare me your condescension. By using "rare" and "so often" you ARE implying that there are too many
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 08:40 PM
Nov 2013

abortions, that women just can't be trusted with such an important matter. They MUST BE told what to use, when, and how often.

Without your careful guidance them irresponsible women will just keep getting pregnant and demand abortions every free moment they have. If only they were educated enough, and used contraception properly there wouldn't be any "unnecessary" abortions.

And how dare one of those women get offended because of arseholish tone of your posts! Who the fuck does she think she is? She should just shut-up and listen to her betters.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
115. Haha. By suggesting what I am implying you are just creating a strawman
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 08:46 PM
Nov 2013

I haven't said a fuckn thing about women not being trusted. Nice try but pretty lame and fucking divisively disgusting.

A good night to you. Go find someone else to spew your patriarchal hatred toward.

My first ignore. Insert witty woman power retort below

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
116. Your "ignore" as a badge of honour! Never mind that you WILL read my responses to your posts. :)
Sun Nov 10, 2013, 08:55 PM
Nov 2013

but wouldn't be able to reply because it would make you look really silly.

phylny

(8,380 posts)
72. I think it's neither "pig" nor ignorant."
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 09:57 AM
Nov 2013

And as a woman who wants abortion to be available for women who want and need it, I do think it should be rare. Any medical procedure has risks with it, and abortion is no different. If the medical procedure can be prevented with education, birth control, and common sense, I think it's better, from the woman's point of view. If she is pregnant and wants an abortion, fine. I think not becoming pregnant in the first place is the better option; however, I recognize that even a "wanted" pregnancy can become unwanted, even using birth control is not foolproof, and common sense is a relative term.

After miscarrying twins, I had a D&E, which would be classified as an abortion except the tissue was not two fetuses, but medically, "products of conception." The procedure wasn't horrible, but was uncomfortable. Given the choice, I'd rather have not had to have the medical procedure if it were at all possible. That doesn't mean in any way, shape, or form I think abortion shouldn't be legal and easily available.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
40. You know...
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:28 AM
Nov 2013

I don't know what the health implications of such are, nor the fiscal costs. Though it may very well be less costly and less damaging than long, unnecessary cycles of oral contraceptives that do in fact have side-effects.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
46. Exactly what I said
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:37 AM
Nov 2013

Beyond those that are taken to regulate hormones and normalize cycles--and considering an oral abortion pill could be less costly and have less side-effects than some experience with many oral contraceptives--doesn't that render then oral contraceptives as completely unnecessary in themselves (for those who have bad side effects)?

cynatnite

(31,011 posts)
52. I see your point...
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:04 AM
Nov 2013

I don't think it will render them unnecessary especially considering the wide range of birth control methods there are besides the pill. Many women will opt for preventative methods rather than an abortion type of pill. A lot of women don't perceive pregnancy as a condition that can be solved with a pill. They will view it as a potential human life which will impact how they handle their reproductive health.

idwiyo

(5,113 posts)
48. Maybe when one has sex very infrequently, as one is not in a relationship.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:41 AM
Nov 2013

I can see the point of not taking the pill if abortion is free and available on request.

 

newcriminal

(2,190 posts)
100. Did I miss something?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:45 PM
Nov 2013

"I can see the point of not taking the pill if abortion is free and available on request."

So, if abortion is free it's ok with you to use it as birth control?

Cassidy

(202 posts)
45. No other medical procedure endangers the lives of the medical professionals involved.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:36 AM
Nov 2013

As was stated above, a legal abortion is safer than carrying a pregnancy to term.

At centers where abortions are offered a few of the safety procedures include:
You must have a prior appointment.
All doors are locked so you have to be buzzed in.
The receptionist sits behind bullet proof glass and you have to show adequate ID as soon as you enter.
Doors are locked behind patients when they are allowed back into the medical area.

The patients don't need to be protected from the procedure, they need to be protected from the murderous anti-choice fanatics.

Radical right-wing legislators, predominantly male, are doing everything they can to make abortion too expensive to afford They are making it de facto illegal by simply pricing it beyond reach. So, when you talk about throwing health care dollars at problems that don't need to be there, perhaps you should also consider the expense (in lives as well as dollars) that the murderous anti-choice thugs are forcing upon society.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
51. This thread is against those that want abortion "safe, legal and rare"
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:50 AM
Nov 2013

By me pointing out that the "safe, legal and rare" proponents of almost any medical procedures have some good points doesn't mean I am extremely concerned at all about the validity of the rabid right-wing in respect to abortion. Frankly, I'm not entirely sure what invoked any mention of those. This is a pro-abortion liberal vs pro-abortion liberal (with more political correctness and an impetus other people use only certain language) slug fest thats been in progress for a while here

CTyankee

(63,909 posts)
71. first trimester abortions are the safest of all surgical procedures.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 09:42 AM
Nov 2013

Only when they are driven underground by anti-choice laws do they become unsafe. Before Roe v. Wade Emergency Rooms regularly saw the results of unsafe, illegal abortions, resulting in death for many women, including those who were already mothers of other children. Often they resorted to abortion (or tried to self inflict one) because they simply could not care for another child. Of course, some of them bled to death or died of massive infection so they left motherless children behind.

And that is what the anti-choicers want to inflict upon women today.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
74. They are not safer than other methods of preventing unwanted pregnancies, nor cheaper
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 12:46 PM
Nov 2013

Such as the state distributing free condoms.

CTyankee

(63,909 posts)
76. I wasn't talking about prevention as much as the safety of the procedure. And since any
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:57 PM
Nov 2013

contraception short of sterilization is 100%, we must have safe, legal abortion available.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
78. Of course. Instead you argue a narrow frame to divisively fight with other pro-choice people
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:42 PM
Nov 2013
And since any View profile contraception short of sterilization is 100%, we must have safe, legal abortion available.


If anyone says they want abortion to be safe and legal, then why the hell do the language police keep talking to them like they are right wing hacks who don't? Safe and legal mean just that. No one in this thread has suggested otherwise. Arguing this point is inane and like pretending the other pro-choicers are against such

CTyankee

(63,909 posts)
88. well, my bad for writing "any" instead of "no" in that sentence. Shoulda caught that...
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:23 PM
Nov 2013

But I am not really arguing anything. I'm really not saying what you think I am. I don't know anyone who thinks an abortion is better than contraception...certainly not me...

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
89. Got it
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:42 PM
Nov 2013

And all I am arguing is that anyone who wants abortion or any other medical procedure to be rare--along with safe and legal, thereby implying unfettered access--is not automatically diametrically opposed to abortion and liberalism, and may hold a view of prevention and education that is very congruent with the pro-choice camp. There has been yet another inane word police war declared to divide up DU and rally an army of malcontents against those who don't use the newly approved code language. Its insane. Its absurd. Frankly, this pattern is becoming so transparent among the trouble starters that its getting suspicious in my view. Its like people have too much time on their hands so they start a word war, rally their troops, and demonize fellow liberals with straw mans and narrowly framed junk arguments meant to make people look bad. Total shit.

Its the same usual suspects known for their constant bullying behavior. Yep, I said it.

CTyankee

(63,909 posts)
90. well, to be fair, I used to work for Planned Parenthood of CT and folks there were pretty
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:53 PM
Nov 2013

wary of the language being used against us. So I can see how pro-choicers can be a little paranoid. God knows we've earned it. It's like the way they call themselves "pro-life" and that makes us "pro-death." I will tell you that I have unreserved praise for the clinic workers I knew at PPC and the docs, esp. back in the day of constant attempts to invade and trash clinics, forcing patients to walk a gantlet of screaming, wailing protesters with gruesome photos of aborted (they say) fetuses. It was a rough time for those workers and docs, believe me. They have good reason to fear all kinds of devious tactics by the other side.

Let's all unite and fight the real enemy here: the anti-choice people.

Period. End of rant.

ZombieHorde

(29,047 posts)
14. "Rare" in this context means different things to different people.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 01:59 AM
Nov 2013

For me, it means that I like exceptional access to contraception and health education, which would make unwanted pregnancies rare. However, some other DUers have pointed out that the word serves to legitimize and/or help pacify those who aren't pro-choice. Their words ring most likely true to me, and I now view the phrase in a different way. I understand why they don't like the phrase.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
19. That's the political genius and moral cowardice of the phrase.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:06 AM
Nov 2013

To pro-choice people it means "unplanned pregnancies shouldn't be common, for women's sake." To the mushy middle it means "abortions for deserving women but not for those trampy other women." To anti-choicers it means "let's whittle away at legalized abortion even if we can't get a ban past the Supremes yet."

It's a political Rorschach ink blot. It means what you want it to mean.

 

KittyWampus

(55,894 posts)
21. there is no moral cowardice. There's mostly an attempt by some to twist the issue away
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:08 AM
Nov 2013

from the ACTUAL "patriarchs" trying to take away our rights.

If you think arguing against trying to make abortions much less necessary, then you are not part of the solution.

Once again, a few extremists trying to get attention.

Reminds me of PETA.

cynatnite

(31,011 posts)
35. It's never bothered me to hear people say the phrase at all...
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:21 AM
Nov 2013

In my mind, I'm thinking lets give people the tools and education they need to prevent unwanted pregnancies in the first place.

You're are right, though. It means what you want it to mean. I never looked at it like this before.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
82. So why do people want it to mean the worse?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:54 PM
Nov 2013

And why are they telling others who use it what the other people mean for them? Its damn strange.

Honestly, I don't think it is some Rorschach. Once you pair "safe" and "legal" with "rare", it means you damn well want protected and unfettered access to the procedure, period. That's the only way it can be safe and legal.

The "rare" word police are damn well forgetting the very core of the statement to fuel this war against other pro-choicers

Whiskeytide

(4,461 posts)
28. I had not thought of the word "rare" like that...
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:15 AM
Nov 2013

... in this context. To me, it has always meant exactly what you said. I suspect most who are pro-choice would instinctively see it that way. I have always thought of it as the distinction between being pro choice instead of the right's misnomer of "pro abortion".

But I now see what you're talking about. Well said. I will also avoid using it in the future - and take more care to instead approach it from the simple logic that education and access to contraception will always be the best way to avoid unwanted pregnancies.

 

KittyWampus

(55,894 posts)
20. Sorry, the issue are far right control freaks, not liberals trying to improve reproductive choices
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:07 AM
Nov 2013

for women and at this point, protecting the progress our mothers and grandmothers already fought for.

xmas74

(29,674 posts)
32. I believe that it should be safe, legal, rare but always available on demand.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:18 AM
Nov 2013

I believe that very early education and easy access to prevention/protection should be made available to all that want it.

Abortion-wise, I wish for easy, widespread availability of "abortion pills" then finally surgical abortion in cases where it is the last resort but still available on demand.

TxDemChem

(1,918 posts)
53. I am sorry you had to make that choice, but
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:07 AM
Nov 2013

I so believe you chose what was best at that time. I often think that the pro-birth crowd do t realize that anyone in that situation would take the decision seriously.

I give you many thanks for sharing a personal part of your life; I know it is not so easy letting strangers into one's world.

whttevrr

(2,345 posts)
55. "abortion should be rare"
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:16 AM
Nov 2013

Is code for judgment. Statistically, abortion is no one's business but the woman and her doctor. In other words fuck the statistics. Here's a motherfucking statistic:

http://www.plannedparenthood.org/resources/research-papers/roe-v-wade-6578.htm

In 1965, abortion was so unsafe that 17 percent of all deaths due to pregnancy and childbirth were the result of illegal abortion (Gold, 1999; NCHS, 1967).


I only post this because I hate wading through these threads to see the rarefied air that some fucking blowhards breathe and try to imprint onto someone's personal choice. Someone up thread started spewing thinly disguised anti abortion rhetoric.
And I just had to take a moment to say:



The worst, is when some guy is pontificating about how women should or should not do anything that involves their unique existential self. I do not have a uterus, therefore my only response should be:

"How can I support your decision?"

Anything else is bullshit opinion.

Agnosticsherbet

(11,619 posts)
56. Is an abortion the best, most efficeint, and safest way to reduce the rates of unwanted pregnancies?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:23 AM
Nov 2013

Last edited Sat Nov 9, 2013, 11:43 AM - Edit history (1)

Silly question. Using methods to not get pregnant are cheap and effective for a high percentage of cases. Birth control pills, condoms, and spermicides are quite cheap.

So, abortion should be less common than the use of birth control pills, condoms, and spermicides.

And what about education. Giving young women and men good, straightforward information on sex and contraception is more expensive that just handing them a rubber of pill, but when you couple that with cheap, easily available contraception you have a system that eliminates the vast number of unwanted pregnancies.

(I want to add that developing a male birth control pill should be a top priority in any system we develop to make abortion rare. )

So, just by combining education with Contraception we can make the need for abortions very uncommon, perhaps even rare.

Now, we add to that morning after pills (a form of emergency contraception) for those women who suffer rape, or even for someone who wakes up and thinks (Oh, crap, I didn't take my pill, or he says, the condom broke).

By setting up a system where contraception is available to any one who needs it, augmenting that with honest sex education, and with emergency methods such as the morning after pill, abortion can become rare.

The call to make it rare has nothing to do with the decision making process, but the system we set up before a woman ever needs to make that tough decision.

Abortion should be rare because it is the most inefficient and unsafe method of dealing with an unwanted pregnancy. We have the means to stop one from happening at all in the vast number of cases. I could argue that it is already rare. How many people have sex in America every day. How many get pregnant. How many of those pregnancies happen because the pill failed, the condom broke, or the sperm laughed at that spermicide and kicked its ass before entering the ovum, or from some other accidental cause, or from incest, or rape.

But when a woman decides to get an abortion for any reason there should be a doctor and a hospital that will provide that service without any questions as part of normal healthcare.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
57. "deal with an" suggests a pregnancy already exists
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:42 AM
Nov 2013

I'd suggest your argument would be more accurate if you asked:

"Is an abortion the best, most efficeint, and safest way to reduce the rates of unwanted pregnancies?"

LostOne4Ever

(9,288 posts)
61. Because I see the loss of life as regrettable but feel the woman's autonomy is paramount
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:47 AM
Nov 2013

I just would like to see it minimized in a way that does not impact her autonomy. I would like to see us do this through education and birth control. IE preventing unwanted pregnancies in the first place. I also think if a woman needs/wants an abortion she should have easy acess to it without shame or explanation. I agree its between her and her doctor.

I don't think any woman takes this decision lightly. I just wish there was a way to preserve the woman's right to her own body and the life as well. There isn't, and I STRONGLY BELIEVE the woman's autonomy takes priority.

And I have never been "high."

What I don't understand is why some people here feel the need to talk to us as if we were anti-choice, and try to shame us as if we were those idiots. We are allies. Giving pro-choice arguments to people who are already pro-choice is pretty pointless no?

[p class=post-sig style=margin-top:0px;text-align:center;]

[div style='color: #B20000;font-size: 2.000em'] [center] Not all those who wander are LOST!!! [/center]

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
67. "some people here feel the need to talk to us as if we were anti-choice"
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:56 AM
Nov 2013

Absolutely. Its startling. If you do not instantly adopt the new approved language, you are chastised as an anti-choice rightwinger. I am appalled at watching this debate between pro-choicers (on each side) drag on for days.

Its all framing and contextual. Both sides are on completely different frames (so the other's argument doesn't quite hold water), but at the end of the day, we are all essentially on the same side. The reality is that anyone who says that want abortion to be--despite rare for whatever reasons--"safe and legal" very much means they want abortion to be exactly that. And it can't be that if its restricted by the state in any manner.

Xolodno

(6,390 posts)
62. Agreed.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:29 AM
Nov 2013

Contraception should be easily available.

Sex education should not be "just don't do it". It should be fully comprehensive...AND with parental support (Example; So were going away for the weekend....make sure you keep it covered!) In case of female (Slap the shit out of them if they refuse a condom!!!). It shouldn't be an embarrassment.

Every effort should be made to prevent the pregnancy in the first place. Accidents happen, however...and sadly, their is no shortage at the orphanage. I don't ever wish anyone to be in that situation.

All too often people assume (particularly here on DU for some reason) that; Rare Abortion = Laws regulating against it.

But that isn't the case. Instead its a movement to provide better birth control so abortion isn't a choice in the first place. And a recognition that you can't legislate "morality" as "morality"...contrary to popular belief...isn't absolute.

Its one of those oxymoron's...if people opposed to abortion really are opposed. They would recognize that making it illegal won't solve the issue. Only shove it elsewhere. But if they devoted as much energy they do to be against it...to the cause of preventing it....they may accomplish a better success rate. But they choose instead to cling to blind ideology.

I had a huge argument once with someone that was a fundamentalist on this issue. I hit him with everything.....including the kitchen sink. I told him "If you are so against abortion...then why don't you reach out to other faiths who are also against this...such as Buddhist, Hindus and (this is where he cringed)...Islamist. And I exclaimed " Why don't you also provide Birth Control assistance? So it doesn't happen in the first place?...and don't give me that God wants us to have one mate stuff...plenty of Biblical Patriarchs had more than on wife. Furthermore...if you dig into history....guess where condoms come from? They used animal intestine's to prevent pregnancy. Oh and show me where in the Bible it says "Thou shalt not have birth control". Let me save you the time...it isn't in there."

Once confronted on matters of faith...this is where they leave me and tell me "you are deceived! If you understood, then you would know". I go toe to toe with them on the Bible, expose them for listening to their minister and not actually reading the Bible...they get mad...and say how I read the Bible is wrong...oh and call me a heretic. Its all too sad in a way.

Went off on a tangent...but sorry you had to go through that experience.

 

alphafemale

(18,497 posts)
69. Birth control should be easily accessible to all and rendered shame-free through education
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 07:46 AM
Nov 2013

I say shame-free because a teen buying contraceptives is still so drenched in shame that it is a cultural joke.

We are a nation awash in sexual images and titillation but still reduced to immature giggling over things like condoms and spermicide.

We need to grow the fuck up and start educating the children to treat sexuality as just another aspect of their lives. We need to dig the rock out of the path that people have been tripping over.

If THAT occurs abortion would become rare.

But even then, it is a procedure that should remain legal and a decision made by the woman, who herself alone, fully understands her circumstances.

That given, we pro-choice people, must equally respect and protect the choices of women who continue with pregnancies against medical advice.

Some of us are prone to clucking our tongue and scorning such things.

But that is pro-choice as well.

As well as things like the Duggars.

That is HER choice.

sir pball

(4,741 posts)
77. I never got the shame of buying protection. Always loved it, actually.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:42 PM
Nov 2013

I mean, for me at 17, buying condoms was the greatest thing ever. I was literally walking up to the clerk and announcing "I'm gonna get laid! F Yeah!". Isn't that something you WANT to scream from the rooftops when you're that age?

Shit, 17 years later and I still feel that way. "I'm gettin' some tonight, woohoo!"

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
80. Undoubtably
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:51 PM
Nov 2013

Honestly, I feel that we could simultaneously decrease unwanted pregnancies at the same damn time as increasing the percent of unwanted pregnancies that end in abortion. We actually sort of needed that yesterday, and that isn't something that is done by usurping "choice" but fostering a healthy community.

boston bean

(36,221 posts)
73. In reading the threads on this topic
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 10:17 AM
Nov 2013

It has become clear that there are quite a few who use the term, to mean they feel it's traumatic to women, andplace a moral question on it in regards to others, not just themselves.

They aren't meaning more access to contraception and healthcare.

This is why the conversation is important. It's not just about not using a "word".

It's about ideas and meanings, and discussing that, not trying to limit one's free speech. I can't stand it when people try to derail in that fashion.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
79. It is an invasive medical procedure. Of course it carries risks and can be traumatic
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:48 PM
Nov 2013
They aren't meaning more access to contraception and healthcare.


Maybe many people mean both. Maybe you don't speak for people when creating strawmen. Maybe they just don't want to adhere to your frame, which attempts to demonize fellow pro-choicers as enemies.


It's about ideas and meanings


And you seem to have appointed yourself the grand interpretor of meaning on the behalf of others, because of course, us "other's" little patriarchal minds aren't insightful enough to know what the fuck we mean when we say something.

Give it a god damn rest already.

boston bean

(36,221 posts)
85. au contraire
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 03:51 PM
Nov 2013

It is you who have appointed yourself to decide what you feel is acceptable for me to post.

bvar22

(39,909 posts)
81. I agree with all of the measures you suggest.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:51 PM
Nov 2013

I would also add "Living Wages for American Workers",
with Economic Initiatives directed at INCREASING the flow of JOBS and money to Main Street, NOT Wall Street.

Many, MANY decisions for abortions are based on not having enough money,
and bad prospects for gainful employment in the future.

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
83. This isn't so clear cut
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 02:59 PM
Nov 2013
Many, MANY decisions for abortions are based on not having enough money,
and bad prospects for gainful employment in the future.


So it seems what you are saying is a pregnancy occurs, and if someone has money, then its "wanted". If it doesn't, its "unwanted". This almost implies the accident must occur in the first place (which should be prevented). In any case, I don't think the goal should be converting accidents to wanted pregnacies, but rather increasing planned pregnancies and decreasing unplanned pregnancies. Especially in light of our population problem; the solution isn't to simply make it more comfortable to bring a child to term (especially when it comes to harm reduction and costs, being that this is actually quite a bit more taxing on a society than the abortion in itself--which is far preferable from a public health perspective).

bvar22

(39,909 posts)
98. Not Clear Cut???!!!
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:35 PM
Nov 2013

Are you seriously going to argue that Financial Concerns and Financial Insecurity
are NOT the Number One reason for non medically necessary abortions in America today?

Really?

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
99. Did you read my response?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:38 PM
Nov 2013

Making more people choose to have children doesn't reduce harm or costs but rather increases them. Abortion is preferable to deciding to keep a surprise. So making people keep surprises ranks way down there in priorities, way below preventing surprises from occuring.

bvar22

(39,909 posts)
101. Yes I read your response.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 05:52 PM
Nov 2013

It didn't make any sense.
Is English your primary language?

"Abortion is preferable to deciding to keep a surprise."
Are you being serious?
I have NEVER heard THAT given as reason to terminate or NOT terminate a pregnancy.
NEVER.

Here.
I'll make it easy for you.
Please complete the following:

Here is a list of reasons women give for non medically necessary Pregnancy Terminations that occur more frequently than Financial Insecurity:

Reason 1) _______________________

Reason 2)_______________________

Reason 3)________________________

(Please fill in the blanks)

 

NoOneMan

(4,795 posts)
102. I don't understand why you would want to make abortion rare if the alternative produces more harm
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:02 PM
Nov 2013

And costs more. Your alternative is reduce them by making more people choose to bring the child to term. Then why would you want to reduce abortion if you didn't feel there is something wrong with this procedure. It doesn't add up.

LWolf

(46,179 posts)
87. It looks like you've gotten a lot of explanations.
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 04:15 PM
Nov 2013

Here's the simple version:

Abortions should be rare, because unplanned pregnancies should be rare.

Unplanned pregnancies should be rare, because every woman should have abundant, instant, free access to information about, and any and all kinds of safe birth control methods.

Understand now?

 

jberryhill

(62,444 posts)
103. Why would anyone want unwanted pregnancies to be common?
Sat Nov 9, 2013, 06:03 PM
Nov 2013

Should we force women to become pregnant, lest we reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies?

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