Illegal abortion, 19th-century illustration. Sagittal section through the abdomen of a pregnant woman, showing a wire being inserted through the birth canal and into the uterus to trigger an abortion of the developing foetus. The legality of abortion has varied depending on the circumstances. Illegal abortions could put the life of the pregnant woman at risk. Artwork from 'Hygiene et Medecine Des Deux Sexes' (1890) by French author Alexis Clerc (1841-1894).