Abortion Controversy: Emily Letts Films Own Abortion To Soothe Other Women

Wow.

It takes incredible bravery to discuss something as delicate as your own abortion, let alone to agree to have it captured on film.

But reactions to Emily Letts, who filmed her abortion and uploaded the video to YouTube, have been mixed, with some accusing her of using her abortion for 15 minutes of fame.

According to Emily, who is herself a counsellor at Cherry Hill Women's Centre, a venue for other abortions, the aim of her video was to provide comfort and support to other women in the same position.

In a note she posted alongside the video, Emily said: "My dearest hope is that someone somewhere will see this and it will provide some guidance, strength, support, or whatever else they need in that moment."

On face value, this seems like a noble decision.

Many women suffer silently on a daily basis, worrying about the outcome of their actions, the potential trauma of the procedure and the possibility of regret and complications.

Many others need to feel validation - to know that they made the right decision and that they aren't the only one in their position.

However, Emily's video has provoked a vicious backlash, and not just from Pro Life campaigners.

Emily, who is also an actress, has been accused of using her abortion as a publicity stunt.

People were put off by what seems to be a relatively cavalier attitude on the film - she calls her abortion "cool" and doesn't appear to get particularly emotional about it.

The problem with Emily's on-camera demeanour, is that it risks undermining the experience of other women.

In other words, by showing the procedure to be easy and seemingly painless, Emily has insulted women who have found the experience to be much more traumatic.

Far from showing "support", Emily's video is said to devalue the real and harrowing emotions felt by many in her position.

Even still, we're not sure that Emily deserves the backlash that she has been experiencing.

There have even been death threats!

We're inclined to agree with this other Twitter user on the subject:

Women who find themselves unexpectedly pregnant and facing a tough decision need all the help and support they can get.

The more we encourage public conversation, the more likely every woman will be able to find someone to identify with.

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What do you think? Did Emily Letts paint a realistic picture of abortion? Let us know in the comments!