Society of Family Planning Committee Statement: Abortion nomenclature

Abstract

Models of abortion care are continually evolving and expanding. Historically, advocates, lawyers, journalists, clinicians, and researchers have used a variety of terms to refer to different types of abortion. In 2004, Weitz and colleagues published an editorial laying out the need to develop consensus on standard terms because, “the terminology used to describe abortion procedures influences political, legislative and medical institutions” [ [1] Weitz T.A. Foster A. Ellertson C. Grossman D. Stewart F.H. “Medical” and “surgical” abortion: rethinking the modifiers. Contraception. 2004; 69: 77-78 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (32) Google Scholar ]. Standardization of abortion nomenclature and terms used to refer to different types of abortion will increase uniformity and accuracy in communication about abortion care. The Society of Family Planning’s recommendation is to use the terms medication abortion and procedural abortion for common use in clinical guidance, journal articles, print materials, websites, media, advocacy, policy briefs, and other communication about abortion care. These recommendations align with recommendations from several other organizations including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists [ [2] Heuser C.C. Sagaser K.G. Christensen E.A. Johnson C.T. Lappen J.R. Horvath S. Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Special Statement: A critical examination of abortion terminology as it relates to access and quality of care. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2023; 228: B2-B7https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajog.2022.12.302 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF Scopus (1) Google Scholar ], the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine [ [3] American College of Obstetricians and GynecologistsGuide to Language and Abortion. 2022; : 1-2 Google Scholar ], and the COMS Project [ [4] COMS ProjectAbortion Terminology Recommendations. 2023; : 1 Google Scholar ]. We recognize the importance of language and its role in providing access to care that is both equitable and that centers the patient experience. We also recognize that language is complex and nuanced. We encourage medical societies and others in sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice fields, to use these terms, while also inviting discussion and continued research on the optimal approach to abortion nomenclature.