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Lena Dunham Apologizes For Saying 'I Wish I Had' An Abortion

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Lena Dunham has apologized for saying she wished she had an abortion.

Dunham made the comment on last week's episode of her "Women Of The Hour" podcast while talking about a self-realization. She said that even though she speaks against stigmatizing abortion, she found herself saying adamantly that she had never had one when she was asked to be part of a project involving women discussing their abortions. In reference to this contradiction, she said: "Now I can say that I still haven't had an abortion, but I wish I had.''

The comment drew harsh criticism online.

On Tuesday, the "Girls'' star apologized on Instagram for what she called "a distasteful joke.''

She said she "would never, ever intentionally trivialize the emotional and physical challenges of terminating a pregnancy.''

"My only goal is to increase awareness and decrease stigma," Dunham added.

Some appeared to accept the apology, while others continued to denounce Dunham.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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