Some believe it’s not inhumane or unethical to terminate a pregnancy simply because the fetus “doesn’t feel pain.” Is this true? Let’s dissect this argument:
What Are Pain Receptors?
We experience the sensation of pain through nerve endings called pain receptors or nociceptors. Nociceptors can be found throughout the body, in our skin, joints, muscles, and some organs. These receptors respond to external factors such as high temperatures and harmful pressure or contact.
Nociceptors send signals to the spinal cord and brain which, upon interpretation, trigger pain responses. We have about 200 nociceptors per square centimeter of skin, so we are experiencing constant sensations.
When Do We First Experience Pain?
Nociceptors begin developing around 7 gestational weeks and can send signals to the spinal cord, brainstem, and thalamus by week 8. Once signals reach the thalamus, they are then sent to the cortical subplate (beginning at 12 weeks). Finally, these signals reach the cortex (beginning at 23 weeks). However, according to WebMD, “it’s not clear whether a fetus needs a cortex to feel pain.”
This research suggests that a fetus could have the pain receptors and pathways necessary to feel pain by the end of the first trimester. According to the CDC, about 93% of abortions occur before 13 weeks.
What Do Fetuses Experience During an Abortion?
Often, abortions are performed through surgical procedures called D&Cs (dilation and curettage) and D&Es (dilation and evacuation). According to Planned Parenthood, D&C is the most common abortion method for surgical abortion up to 16 weeks.
During these procedures, doctors dilate the cervix and use forceps and/or suction to remove the embryo or fetus. These removal methods often result in dismemberment, as individual body parts are removed through the cervix.
If a fetus might feel pain as early as the first trimester, how can we justify the intentional dismemberment and death of the fetus? Furthermore, whether the fetus feels pain or not, abortion is still ending a human life. Abortion deprives the fetus—a genetic human being—of its right to life and dignified, natural death.
Learn more about the various stages of fetal development (conception, first, second, and third trimester) and don’t forget to follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok).