Are U.S. Abortion Laws Ignoring Women's Health in Favor of Fetal Viability?

Throughout the 2024 presidential campaign, abortion—particularly later-term procedures—emerged as a contentious issue, sparking intensive debates rife with misconceptions. Discussions predominately revolve around fetal development markers, such as the heartbeat, pain perception, and survival outside the womb, which many U.S. abortion laws cite to impose restrictions. However, these benchmarks are primarily shaped by legal and political narratives rather than scientific or medical insights, neglecting the realities faced by pregnant individuals.In our research, which involved interviews with 30 women who underwent later-term abortions, it became evident that these markers do not resonate with their experiences. Many faced serious fetal medical conditions and cited their pregnancies’ quality of life rather than mere viability when making their decisions. The dichotomy between legal definitions and patient realities poses ethical dilemmas about women's health and autonomy.