Frequently Asked Questions

Is abortion a religious issue?

For many it is a religious issue, for others a moral issue, but for all it is a personal decision. Most Protestant denominations and the Jewish faith support these decisions , and thus support our right to choose what is best for us. Some religious groups have spread a great deal of guilt by equating abortion with murder. Most thoughtful, religious people do not believe this way, although they do see abortion as a serious matter, not to be approached without counsel.

Is abortion wrong?

Faith Roots Abortion Access supports abortion care, full stop.. The Bible makes no direct reference to abortion at all. It is a matter of individual circumstances and personal conscience. What is right for one person and situation may not be for another, and we support any decision you make.

What does it mean to be “pro-abortion”?

As people of faith, we believe in a future where abortion is free from stigma and shame. We must use the word abortion in order to destigmatize it; it is time to move past euphemisms.

Is abortion legal?

Yes, it is legal in New Mexico. Even beyond the SCOTUS ruling overturning Roe v. Wade in June 2022, abortion remains legal and available in New Mexico - our legislature even went as far as establishing further protections during our state’s 2023 legislative session. HB7 and SB13 were signed into law in April by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, protecting abortion access. HB7, Reproductive and Gender-Affirming Health Care Freedom Act prohibits public bodies from denying, restricting or discriminating against an individual's right to use reproductive health care. SB13, Reproductive Health Provider Protections protects reproductive healthcare providers, including abortion funds and our volunteers, from criminal liability or professional disciplinary action. It also protects patients' reproductive healthcare information from being accessed by other states.

Is parental consent required?

New Mexico does not require parental notification or consent.

How safe is abortion?

Abortion in the United States is safe and has few complications, with the overwhelming majority occurring the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. A legal abortion, done by a licensed medical clinician, is a sterile, safe, and uncomplicated procedure with almost no risk. State laws and regulations that are imposed on abortion care only reduce access to safe abortion care - creating barriers to care, disproportionately impacting Black, Indigenous and People of Color.

Will a person be able to have children in the future after having an abortion?

Research has shown that abortion has no effect on a person’s ability to have children in the future.

Is abortion a difficult procedure?

There are two types of abortions: medical and procedural; they carry different benefits and side effects. You can read about their comparison here.

What is surgical abortion?

A procedure where instruments are inserted into the uterus and is done in a medical office by a licensed medical provider.

What is medication abortion?

Medication abortion requires a visit to a clinic or office and uses two medications; Mifespristone and Misoprostol to cause a process similar to a miscarriage. Some of the process may happen at home.

What is the size of a fetus at 6 weeks? At 8 weeks? At 12 weeks?

At 6 weeks the embryo is 1/2 inch long; at 8 weeks, 1 inch long; at 12 weeks, 3 inches long. Abortions later in pregnancy are rare, and typically only done in very exceptional circumstances.

Does a fetus feel pain or experience fear during an abortion?

Fear is a conscious awareness of danger – this is not possible for a fetus. There is no evidence that the fetal nervous system is developed enough to feel pain.

What are Crisis Pregnancy Centers?

Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs), also known as “fake clinics”, aim to prevent people from having abortions. The majority of CPCs are affiliated evangelical Christian networks and anti-abortion organizations, presenting themselves as providing comprehensive healthcare.

Click here to find legitimate and verified abortion providers.