Induced abortion has been discussed in Brazil for many years without producing changes in the Penal Code in force since 1940 and according to which it is illegal and a crime against life. There are only two circumstances in which induced abortion is allowed: when there is no other recourse for saving the pregnant woman' life, and when the pregnancy resulted from rape and the abortion is preceded by the woman's informed consent. The purpose of this article is to show how the abortion problem has been dealt with under executive and legislative policies, focusing especially on discussion in Congress considering the role of organized women's groups. The study focuses on the legislative debate on induced abortion and how it was preceded, accompanied, and followed by actions by the women's groups. Other political and social actors involved in the debate, such as the Catholic Church, sectors of the medical community, and protestant religions are mentioned.
Abortion; Induced Abortion; Legislation; Women's Movement; Women's Health