What is the difference between elective and therapeutic abortion?

Elective abortion and therapeutic abortion are two ways to end a pregnancy in Washington. Elective abortion is when a person chooses to end their pregnancy through pregnancy termination or one of the other techniques available. This is typically done when the person believes that continuing the pregnancy would not be beneficial or would place an undue burden on them. Therapeutic abortion is when an abortion is performed to protect the health of the mother or fetus. This typically occurs when there is some medical complication that could cause a harm to the mother or fetus if the pregnancy is allowed to continue. In this case, the health of the mother or fetus is paramount, and the abortion is seen as a necessary medical procedure. The main difference between elective and therapeutic abortion is the reason for performing the procedure. With elective abortion, the person is making the decision that the pregnancy is not beneficial and the abortive procedure is chosen. Whereas, with therapeutic abortion, the abortion is performed for the medical benefit of the mother or fetus and is seen as a necessary procedure to protect their health.

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