Legal Definitions - therapeutic abortion

Therapeutic abortion is a medical procedure that is done to save the life or health of the mother. It is different from induced abortion, which is done to intentionally end a pregnancy.

For example, if a woman has a medical condition that makes it dangerous for her to continue with the pregnancy, a therapeutic abortion may be necessary to save her life.

Therapeutic abortion is legal in many countries, including the United States. The Supreme Court has recognized a woman's right to choose to end her pregnancy for medical reasons.

It is important to note that therapeutic abortion is not the same as late-term abortion or partial-birth abortion, which are controversial procedures that are often restricted by law.