CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
“A woman’s right to choose is fundamental. It’s about her
body, her life, future.” – Gloria Steinem. Abortion was legally restricted in almost every
country by the end of the nineteenth century. The most important sources of such laws were the
imperial countries of Europe—Britain, France, Portugal, Spain, and Italy—who imposed their
own laws forbidding abortion on their colonies. It is the termination of a pregnancy by removal
or expulsion of an embryo or fetus. An abortion that occurs without intervention is known as a
miscarriage or "spontaneous abortion"; these occur in approximately 30% to 40% of all
[Link] deliberate steps are taken to end a pregnancy, it is called an induced abortion,
or less frequently "induced miscarriage.
Many legal systems recognize a fundamental right to privacy, which can encompass
personal decisions about one's body, including reproductive choices. A central argument for legal
abortion is that women have the right to control their own bodies and make decisions about their
reproductive health. This principle emphasizes individual autonomy and self-determination.
Abortion is a complex and highly debated issue that has sparked passionate discussions and
diverse perspectives across the globe.
In the Philippines, where the 1987 Constitution explicitly prohibits abortion, the topic
remains particularly sensitive and often shrouded in stigma. This study delves into the attitudes
of Filipino youth towards abortion, specifically focusing on Grade 12 HUMSS students at Felix
Amante Senior High School. By examining the perspectives of male and female students, the
research aims to uncover potential gender-based differences in their views and explore the
factors that might influence their attitudes. The study hopes to foster greater understanding and
promote responsible discussions about this sensitive topic within the Filipino community.
Understanding the Consequences of abortion, one primary aim of studying abortion is to assess
its impact on women's physical and mental health.
This includes investigating potential risks and complications associated with the
procedure, as well as its long-term effects on women's emotional well-being. Researchers also
aim to dispel common misconceptions and myths surrounding abortion, such as the belief that it
causes mental health problems like depression or anxiety. Based on Dobbs v. Jackson Women's
Health Organization (2022): In Dobbs, the Court overturned both Roe and Casey, holding that
there is no constitutional right to abortion.
This decision returned the regulation of abortion to the states, allowing them to pass laws
restricting or banning abortion. Prior to 1973, abortion was largely illegal in the United States,
with most states banning the procedure except in cases of rape, incest, or danger to the woman's
health . This led to a significant number of unsafe and illegal abortions, putting women's lives at
[Link] study aim to identify the multifaceted and encompasses a wide range of perspectives,
from understanding its impact on women's health and well-being to examining its role in broader
social and political contexts.