Science Vs Abortion: The Science and the Supreme Court
Jun 30, 2022
The discussion kicks off with the Supreme Court's decision on Roe v. Wade and its far-reaching impact on abortion laws. Insights into fetal development dispel common myths, particularly around pain perception. Listeners are guided through the scientific truths about early pregnancy and the intricacies of first and third-trimester abortions. Personal stories from women seeking abortions highlight diverse motivations, emphasizing the emotional challenges they face. The episode connects scientific facts to the political landscape, unraveling the complex narratives surrounding abortion.
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Abortion Prevalence
- Over 600,000 abortions occurred in the U.S. in 2019, as reported by the CDC.
- It's estimated that one in four American women will have an abortion during their lifetime.
Fetal Development at Time of Abortion
- Most abortions happen in the first eight weeks of gestation, according to the CDC.
- At this point, the embryo is about the size of a pumpkin seed.
Fetal Pain
- A fetus needs pain receptors, nerve fibers, and a developed cortex to feel pain.
- These don't fully develop until around 24 weeks, much later than most abortions.