Opinion on abortion

There are many opinions on abortions, but I think most will agree that it is a difficult procedure for both mother and physician. I don't think it matters what's the indication. Today I saw an 18th week pregnancy being terminated. It was the first time I witnessed an abortion.

The indication was clear: multiple genetic abnormalities were confirmed by amniocentesis and USG. According to the doctors opinion the fetus was not compatible for life and an abortion had to take place.

The procedure was technically simple: The patient was placed under general anesthesia. The cervix was dilated and evacuation took place. It only took 10-15 minutes to preform yet I believe no one in the room was left untouched, even the most experienced doctor in the room admitted that this was the worst part of being a gynecologist "I never get used to it" she said.

The debate over legalizing abortions is one with no definite answer, I believe that both opinions "pro life" or "pro choice"can be understood and have a righteous background. I can just say that observing the abortion left me with many questions.

Drowning in thought and emotion

• Questions regarding our medical opinion and the weight it carries. 
• Ethical grey areas that no one really knows what is right or wrong and how to act. 
• Moments in life where our actions as medical doctors can come into conflict with our beliefs.
• A practice that combines life and death so clearly but can be regarded as nothing more then a "medical procedure".

I have not yet established my opinion on abortion and I have a feeling that I will never have a definite one. I can only hope that as a doctor I will do what I think to be the best thing at that moment for my patient. Hopefully those would be the thoughts that guides my actions.

If anyone is interested here is a link about facts collected on abortions and their outcomes that were published in well known journals.