5 Pro-Choice Myths—Debunked!
We just wrapped up voting season here in the United States. That means our news is dominated by people shouting opinions about life, choice, rights, and science. Voices seem to clash in dizzying debates, leaving behind a trail of misguided myths and unanswered questions. But what if we pushed pause for second? What if we took the time to unravel the facts, address misconceptions, and pursue truths that are often drowned out in the noise?
We have all the information of the entire world at our fingertips. But in a fast-paced culture, accuracy is sacrificed for speed. We may be tempted to settle for big, bold headlines instead of taking the time to understand what is happening. It certainly happens when views regarding abortion clash. So, let’s spend a moment to dive in and bust some of the biggest myths around the deeply personal and profound issue of abortion.
Myth #1: “No one knows when life truly begins.”
It is often said with confidence: “No one knows when human life begins.” However, science has a clear position on this topic: life begins at conception. Dr. Jerome Lejeune, a prominent geneticist, writes, “after fertilization has taken place, a new human being has come into being. This is no longer a matter of taste or opinion; it is plain experimental evidence.“[CG1] You can also hear the evidence: fetal heartbeats are detected as early as six weeks. This is just a single example that confirms a distinct and growing human life begins at conception. Further, The Family Research Council (FRC) reports that the medical community requires fetal surgeries provide anesthesia for the unborn child. This would only make sense if the fetus was believed to be a separate, and distinct, patient[CG2] .
Myth #2: “The unborn can’t feel pain”
No one wants to hurt an innocent child. Whether pro-choice or pro-life—we all want to protect babies. Perhaps that is why the myth of “the unborn can’t feel pain” has been repeated so often.
We don’t want to think that anything we could do would injure a child. But contrary to this claim, unborn babies can respond to pain stimuli by the second trimester[CG3] . It’s possible that babies experience pain as early as 12 weeks. Many doctors now administer pain relief during fetal surgeries, acknowledging that the unborn are sensitive to pain[CG4] . These actions challenge the misconception that an unborn baby is simply tissue without feeling. The truth is that unborn babies feel pain like we do.
Myth #3: “Only illegal abortions harm mothers”
Pro-choice advocates have stated that “back-alley” abortions (illegal abortions) are the only dangerous forms of the procedure. The conclusion is that if women do not have access to legal abortions, they will be forced to resort to far more harmful ways of terminating a pregnancy. Therefore, abortion protects the health of mothers.
But this is a myth. Data from many medical sources show that both legal and illegal abortions pose risks. For instance, the FRC highlights research linking abortion to mental health struggles, such as depression and anxiety[CG5] . Additionally, complications can arise, especially in second trimester and late-term abortions, where moms face increased physical risks. Advocates for life—like Caring Network—prioritize women’s health by promoting alternatives that offer both medical and emotional support, rather than options that come with health risks.
Myth #4: “Pro-life advocates don’t care about babies after they’re born.”
One of the most persistent myths is that the pro-life movement only focuses on the unborn. “They only care about the baby before it’s born” is a statement that is flung at those who want to protect moms and babies. But this is simply not true. Many pro-life organizations work tirelessly to support both children and parents post-birth. Caring Network, for instance, provides resources, support, and early pregnancy services to help families in need. A majority of pro-life advocates foster children, donate to families in need, provide scholarships for underprivileged students, and promote the health and safety of ALL people—no matter in the womb or out. Through their actions, pro-life proponents often demonstrate their commitment to fostering a culture of life that extends beyond birth.
For people of faith, protecting and loving children, from pre-birth to adulthood, is a mandate from Jesus. In Mark 9:36-37, it says “Taking [a] child in his arms, Jesus said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.” To care and protect children is the way of Jesus, and something Christians take very seriously.
Myth #5: “There’s no scientific basis for being pro-life—it’s just religious.”
In order to downplay the views of others, some may argue that that pro-life view is simply a matter of belief, and not based in reality. While many pro-life supporters are motivated by faith, modern science strongly supports their beliefs. Evidence upholds the core truth: that the unborn are fully human and deserving of life. While it may be the pro-life advocates are influenced by their faith, their stance is firmly rooted in scientific understanding, compassionate care, and advocacy for both women and children. Understanding the data helps dispel the myths; revealing that supporting life at all stages aligns with science, health, and respect for each person’s inherent worth. As Mark 9:36-37 suggests, welcoming children in all forms—unborn and born alike—is a reflection of love for the least among us, embracing the sanctity of life.
The voices may get louder during an election cycle. But we can choose a different path. Through informed discussions, active listening, and compassionate support, we can shatter myths and foster a society that values every life from the moment it begins. Pro-life support systems, like Caring Network, exemplify this commitment to both mother and child, meeting immediate needs while advocating for the long-term well-being of families. This inclusive approach challenges stereotypes and brings truth to light, showing that caring for life is not a political stance but a human responsibility.
Abortion hurts.
For many, it brings unexpected consequences: Ongoing shame. Anxiety or depression. Difficulty bonding with children and other loved ones. Isolation. Alienation.
It’s a loss that lasts.
But in Christ, loss is never where our stories end. Caring Network has a post-abortion program, offering hope and healing to all those whose lives have been touched by abortion.
So help us make a difference … two lives at a time.
References:
[CG1](Lejeune, J. (1981). “The Beginning of Life.” New England Journal of Medicine.)
[CG2]https://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF21F56.pdf
[CG3]https://acpeds.org/position-statements/fetal-pain
[CG4]https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8935428/
[CG5]https://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF21F56.pdf
