Dear greenie,

Yes. Abortion is a very safe procedure in countries where it is legal, like the United States. In the U.S., abortion is about twice as safe as a shot of penicillin, and is 11 times safer than giving birth. Contrary to what you may have heard, abortion does not increase the risk of

• birth defects, premature birth, or low birth weight in future pregnancies
• breast cancer
• ectopic or tubal pregnancy
• miscarriage

The fact is that, at current rates, nearly one third of all women in the U.S will have an abortion by the time they are 45 years old. Of course, most abortions could be prevented by the proper use of contraception.

In countries where abortion is illegal, it is quite dangerous. Women who try to give themselves abortions secretly may bleed too much or get infections. People who provide abortions in such countries may not have the right training or equipment to do it safely.

About 67,000 women die from illegal abortion every year in countries where it is illegal. Five million are hospitalized from abortion complications such as too much bleeding or infection. This is the reason that so many pro-choice people and organizations like Planned Parenthood keep fighting to keep abortion safe and legal in the U.S.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.