Aborted fetus

Aborted Fetus refers to the termination of a pregnancy before the fetus can survive outside the uterus. The medical term for this event is an abortion, which can be spontaneous (also known as a miscarriage) or induced. The topic of aborted fetuses is often discussed in the context of bioethics, religion, law, and medicine.

Causes

Aborted fetuses can result from a variety of causes. Spontaneous abortions or miscarriages often occur due to chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, maternal health problems, hormonal issues, or infections. Induced abortions are typically the result of a conscious decision to end the pregnancy, often due to medical, personal, or societal factors.

Medical Implications

The medical implications of an aborted fetus can vary greatly depending on the stage of pregnancy and the method of abortion used. Complications can include infection, excessive bleeding, and damage to the reproductive organs. Psychological effects, such as depression and anxiety, can also occur.

Ethical and Legal Considerations

The ethical and legal considerations surrounding aborted fetuses are complex and vary widely around the world. Some societies and religions view the fetus as a person with rights, while others do not assign personhood until after birth. Laws regarding abortion range from complete prohibition to unrestricted access.

Research and Controversy

Aborted fetal tissue has been used in scientific research for decades, particularly in the field of stem cell research. This practice is controversial and has sparked ethical debates about the use of such tissue.

See Also

• Abortion
• Miscarriage
• Bioethics
• Stem cell research