THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF PROLIFE OBSTETRICIANS AND GYNECOLOGISTS AAPLOG Statement on Partial Birth Abortion February, l997 The American Association of ProLife Obstetricians and Gynecologists is strongly opposed to the procedure known to the general public as “Partial Birth Abortion”, and known in medical terminology as “Intact Dilatation and Extraction,” or “intact D&X.” This medical terminology was established in a policy statement by the Executive Board of ACOG issued on 12 January 97 entitled “Statement on Intact Dilatation and Extraction.” “Intact D & X” is defined in the policy statement as being comprised of all of the following four elements: 1. deliberate dilatation of the cervix, usually over a sequence of days; 2. instrumental internal version of the fetus to a footling breech; 3. breech extraction of the body excepting the head; and 4. partial evacuation of the intracranial contents of a living fetus to effect vaginal delivery of a dead, but otherwise intact fetus. Our physicians can envision no instance of medical necessity involving a viable baby in which this dangerous mid or last trimester 2 or 3 day dilatation/killing/extraction procedure may be viewed as a treatment option to save the life of the mother, or to improve her health. We recognize that in rare circumstances a mother’s life may be threatened by the continuation of her pregnancy. In such a situation, a delivery method should be offered to the mother that will be safe for her and, if possible, will maximize the chances for the infant’s survival. As physicians who care for pregnant women and their living unborn children, we deplore the use of the “Intact D & X” (partial birth abortion) procedcure. We believe that it is an unnecessary and dangerous medical operation for the mother, and a clear and violent violation of the infant’s human rights. This procedure has no place in a civilized society.
Menu
Menu