Is abortion a question of gut feeling?

Editor - I agree with Sharon Barclay¹: abortion is and always will be a controversial subject. But I do think it is more than a question of mere gut feeling.

Most people have a view on abortion based on their personal experiences, moral, or religous views. We also have to accept that these may change when faced with such a situation. It is very important as doctors to respect patients views and autonomy and to allow them to make decisions for themselves.

At the same time, I am sure many people agree that abortion should not be allowed to become a contraceptive option and should be reserved for genuine cases when a pregnancy cannot be continued.

1. Barclay S. Abortion: a question of gut feeling. studentBMJ 2002;10:165. http://studentbmj.com/back_issues/0502/letters/165b.html (May.)