Background
An abortion is a medical or surgical procedure that deliberately ends a pregnancy before an embryo or fetus is born. Opponents of abortion typically object to the practice for religious or ethical reasons, contending that the procedure constitutes the cruel termination of what they consider to be a viable human life. Those who support a woman’s right to choose an abortion argue that access to safe, legal abortions is a human right. In Roe v. Wade (1973), the US Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution protects a woman’s right to an abortion through the end of the first trimester, or the twelfth week of pregnancy. After twelve weeks, a woman’s access to abortion may be restricted based on the discretion of the states, as well as the level of risk that the pregnancy poses to the woman’s health. The issue remains highly controversial. (Opposing Viewpoints)
As the debate over abortion continues, here are five key facts about Americans’ views on the topic, based on recent Pew Research Center polling:
Links to many of the latest Pew Research Center reports and data on views toward abortion in the United States and around the world.
Results of Gallup Polls from 1975 - 2019, tracking opinions on abortion in the U.S.
Overview of state abortion laws from the Guttmacher Institute,as of April 2010. Also, click on State Laws and Policies tab.
From the Pew Research Center FactTank
Historical perspective from 1969 in The Atlantic before Roe v. Wade.
The Guttmacher Institute monitors and analyzes state policy developments—including legislative, judicial and executive actions—on a broad range of issues related to sexual and reproductive health and rights. These resources, on such issues as access to and availability of abortion, contraceptive services and sex education, are updated regularly to provide a comprehensive picture of the state policy landscape.
From the Guttmacher Institute. Choose a state from the drop down menu, to view that state's fact sheet.
Oral arguments for the case before the Court
Remember, this is a draft, not a final decision on the Dobbs case
PREVIOUS CASES
The Center for Reproductive Rights is a global human rights organization of lawyers and advocates who ensure reproductive rights are protected in law as fundamental human rights for the dignity, equality, health, and well-being of every person.
This is the official website for the Pro-Life Action League and they offer a plethora of resources on getting the facts on abortion, commonly asked questions about abortion law, and even information on Planned Parenthood all of which come from a pro-life standpoint.