Misinformation, disinformation, half-truths, and lies have been used over the last couple of decades to divide people and polarize the conversation about reproductive health care and abortion care.
Why? It’s easier to gain power by dividing people than bringing them together.
We can counter misinformation by framing our conversations about abortion with facts. If we can spread the truth in a clear and memorable way, we can help stop the spread of false information while making the truth about abortion more widespread.
How to address the myths and misinformation around abortion access
- State the facts
- Call out misinformation
- Show the fallacy at work
- Restate the facts to replace the misinformation
Myths we’re busting
MYTH: Abortion is physically and mentally harmful.
TRUTH: Abortions, like other reproductive health procedures, are safe.
MYTH: Too many people use abortion as birth control.
TRUTH: The choice to have an abortion is a deeply personal medical decision, one that often happens after talking to trusted family members and physicians.
MYTH: If it’s outlawed, people will no longer receive abortions.
TRUTH: People sought abortions when it was illegal and they still will now.
MYTH: There are currently no restrictions on abortion where it is legal.
TRUTH: Abortion care is one of the most regulated types of medical care.
MYTH: Abortion is murder.
TRUTH: Abortion is a matter of health care, not a criminal act.
MYTH: Abortion is never necessary to save a person’s life.
TRUTH: There are absolutely times when it is medically necessary to have an abortion to save a pregnant person’s life.
MYTH: You can’t be “pro-choice” without being “pro-abortion.”
TRUTH: You can be a champion for your neighbors’ freedom to decide their own path without having had an abortion yourself.
Keep talking! It’s going to take more than one conversation to make change, but a real-life, two-way conversation is the best place to start. Check out our Talk About Abortion guide for more resources.
