Abortion presents two significant challenges. First, there is the act of abortion itself, which is objectively and gravely evil. Second, there are the women who have had abortions—many of whom face complex and difficult circumstances that shape their decisions. As pro-life advocates, our mission is twofold. We must teach the world about the intrinsic evil of abortion while showing compassion to post-abortive individuals.
Since the first point is often emphasized, I want to focus on the second—understanding why women choose abortion. By addressing these reasons, we can better prevent future abortions and provide meaningful support to those suffering in its aftermath.
In 2004, the Guttmacher Institute conducted a survey asking post-abortive women why they chose abortion. The findings were revealing:
- 74% said having a child would interfere with their education, work, or ability to care for other children.
- 73% cited financial instability.
- 48% did not want to be a single mother or faced relationship turmoil due to the pregnancy.
Despite claims that abortion is a “free” choice, these statistics show that external pressures heavily influence the decision. Some may see these women as ambitious or independent, but the reality is often different. Many feel hopeless, unsupported, and alone.
The Lozier Institute supports this conclusion. A study published in the Cureus medical journal found that nearly 70% of abortions are coerced, unwanted, or inconsistent with a woman’s true preference. Additionally, 60% of post-abortive women reported feeling “high levels of pressure to abort from one or more sources.”
Financial instability, job loss, and relationship breakdowns create overwhelming stress. These pressures do not empower women; they push them toward a choice they may not have freely made. Society treats the baby as the problem rather than addressing the amendable circumstances surrounding the pregnancy.
I have witnessed first-hand how these pressures affect women. Story after story confirms that few truly want an abortion. Fear, lack of support, and abandonment often drive the decision.
One young woman I met discovered she was unexpectedly pregnant and turned to her family for guidance. The most common response she received was, “Well… it’s your choice.” She later told me how unhelpful that statement was. She already felt uncertain, and hearing those words made her feel even more alone. What she needed was someone to listen, acknowledge her fears, and help her find real, compassionate solutions. Autonomy was not what she needed—she needed community.
These statistics reveal that abortion is neither free nor empowering. As pro-life advocates, we must address the underlying challenges of unplanned pregnancies. Our role is to offer truth, encouragement, and love in these difficult situations.
When we meet post-abortive women, our first response should not be judgment. Instead, we must listen, love, and guide them toward spiritual and psychological healing. Together, we can help them untangle the complicated factors that led to their decision.
Above all, whether we work to prevent abortion or help heal its wounds, we must surrender everything to Christ.
By Emily Branscum
