1927: Doctor implicated in fatal Chicago abortion

On October 17, 1927, 31-year-old Auna Arola died from complications from a criminal abortion performed in Chicago on October 5. On October 29, Dr. Vincent Tonavena was arrested. He was indicted for felony murder on November 1.

How common was it for a woman, back before legalization, to find a doctor to do her abortion?
It was very common -- probably more than 90% of the time.
It was about as common as finding any other kind of abortionist -- about 50%.
It was fairly uncommon -- about 10%.
It was very rare -- less than 2%.


For more abortion deaths, visit the Cemetery of Choice:



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