Laws, counselling can reduce abortions

THE EDITOR: I am writing in response to a letter by Nkrumah Bain, which appeared in your newspaper on March 16, 2005. I am happy you read the special report on February 18, 2005. Please note  that what you read would have only represented one side of the story and it is important that you look at the alternative arguments.  I am not sure if my letter would be published because I have submitted several letters stating my pro-choice position and they were not published. I wonder why? I hear Mr Bain’s pain and he has all the right to feel this way. Clearly his relationship had problems because it seems that they did not discuss the issue as to why she wanted an abortion.  Did the relationship break up because of the abortion? Did he seek counselling for both of them, so they can discuss the issue?

Three (3) abortions in nine months, if this is true, what would prevent this from happening? I have heard of cases where women have had nine (9) abortions in their lifetime. Is a criminal law helping or preventing the situation?  Clearly the answer is no. Abortions are an everyday occurrence. Is there a structured system where non-biased counselling is available and provided to women who need pre and post counselling? A structured post abortion counselling service can assist in reducing repeat abortions. Of course, with a criminal law this kind of counselling will not take place. Let’s not be too emotional about the issue, let’s be rational and see that a woman cannot and will not be forced to continue a pregnancy. Some women would terminate at whatever cost necessary, including endangering their life and health.

Let’s respect a woman’s moral capacity to make decisions regarding her fertility. With proper education and information, sustained socio-economic systems and a law that is not criminal in nature, we can look forward to some improvement in abortion. The criminal law only exacerbates the problem. Nkrumah you needed to have spoken with your partner, reporting the woman to the police did not work and would never really work. There is help out there. You should seek non- directive counselling from an organisation or qualified individuals. Not counselling that tell you what is right or wrong but one that gives you all the information that you need to help you.

Blessings!
G NELSON
Moruga