Is Abortion Wrong?

Yes, abortion is wrong, although there are rare circumstances in which an abortion may be justified. The Lord has commanded, "Thou shalt not... kill, nor do anything like unto it" (D&C 59:6). The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also teaches the following truths:

"Human life is a sacred gift from God. Elective abortion for personal or social convenience is contrary to the will and the commandments of God. Church members who submit to, perform, encourage, pay for, or arrange for such abortions may lose their membership in the Church."

When Is Abortion Not Wrong?
There are some rare circumstances in which having an abortion is not wrong. Some examples of this are when:

• the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest
• the mother's life is in serious jeopardy (determined through proper medical authority)
• the baby will not survive after birth due to severe defects (determined through proper medical authority)

These situations don't automatically make it okay to have an abortion. Abortion should only be considered after counseling with proper Church leaders and receiving a confirmation from the Lord (which is done through personal revelation).

Abortion, Marriage, or Adoption?
When a child is born out of wedlock abortion is still wrong. The Church counsels that "the best option is for the mother and father of the child to marry and work toward establishing an eternal family relationship."¹ Although having sex outside of marriage is a sin, repentance and forgiveness are always available and working to have an eternal family is always possible, no matter what your current situation may be.

In the Family Proclamation² we are clearly taught that "Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity." If a couple are not able to marry or "a successful marriage is unlikely," the Church encourages that the child be placed up for adoption.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint has an outstanding adoption program through LDS Family Services that helps and supports all parties involved: mothers, fathers, children, grandparents, adoptive parents, etc. You can visit their official website at ItsAboutLove.org.

Notes:
1. Gospel Topic: Abortion
2. The Family: A Proclamation to the World paragraph seven.