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Abortion in adolescence: a four-country comparison
P Welsh1, M McCarthy, B Cromer
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals, Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health, Columbus, OH, USA.
Summary
Legalized abortion reduced public debate in Europe, shifting focus to family planning and access. The US continues to experience more volatile discussions surrounding abortion access and services.
Area of Science:
- Social Science
- Public Health
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Abortion remains a topic of public discussion and varying consensus across nations.
- Legalization of abortion has impacted public discourse and policy priorities differently in various countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare perceptions of abortion among healthcare providers, administrators, politicians, and anti-abortion activists.
- To analyze these perceptions across Great Britain, Sweden, The Netherlands, and the United States.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analytic methodology was employed for the study.
- Data was collected from 75 participants representing diverse stakeholder groups.
Main Results:
- No pre-legalization consensus on abortion existed in any studied country.
- Post-legalization, European nations generally experienced reduced volatility, focusing on family planning and access.
- The United States exhibited continued public discussion and a different approach to abortion services compared to European countries.
Conclusions:
- Legalization of abortion can lead to a decrease in public volatility.
- European countries have prioritized family planning and accessible abortion services post-legalization.
- Significant differences exist in the approach and public discourse surrounding abortion between the US and European countries.