Fact Check: Abortion pills are 22 times more harmful than previous FDA reports suggest.

Fact Check: "Abortion pills are 22 times more harmful than previous FDA reports suggest."

What We Know

The claim that "abortion pills are 22 times more harmful than previous FDA reports suggest" originates from a statement made by U.S. Senator Steve Daines, referencing a study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC). According to this study, it was reported that serious adverse effects from the abortion pill, mifepristone, occur in approximately 1 in 10 women, which is significantly higher than the rates previously acknowledged by the FDA (Daines Statement).

The FDA's historical data on mifepristone has indicated lower rates of serious complications, which has led to the ongoing debate about the safety of medication abortions. The World Health Organization (WHO) maintains that when performed correctly, abortion is a safe procedure, and emphasizes the importance of access to quality abortion care to prevent unsafe abortions and associated complications (WHO Abortion, WHO Guidelines).

Analysis

The assertion that abortion pills are 22 times more harmful is based on a specific interpretation of the data presented in the EPPC study. Critics of this study argue that its methodology is flawed and that it may not accurately reflect the broader context of abortion safety (Fact checking a study, Flawed Report). The EPPC is known for its conservative stance on abortion, which raises questions about potential bias in their findings.

Conversely, the WHO and other medical organizations argue that when abortion is conducted under safe conditions, the risks are minimal. They report that unsafe abortions contribute significantly to maternal mortality and morbidity, emphasizing that access to safe abortion care is crucial for women's health (WHO Abortion, WHO Guidelines).

The claim's reliance on a single study from a politically motivated organization may not provide a comprehensive view of the safety of mifepristone. Additionally, the broader medical consensus supports the notion that medication abortions, when performed according to established guidelines, are safe and effective (Largest Ever Real-World Analysis).

Conclusion

The claim that "abortion pills are 22 times more harmful than previous FDA reports suggest" is Partially True. While the EPPC study presents alarming statistics regarding the safety of mifepristone, the methodology and potential bias of the source raise significant concerns. The broader medical community, including the WHO, supports the safety of abortion when conducted properly. Thus, while there may be increased risks associated with mifepristone as suggested by the EPPC, these claims should be viewed in the context of established medical guidelines and the overall safety record of medication abortions.

Fact Check: Abortion pills are 22 times more harmful than previous FDA reports suggest.