Abortion ill effects not supported by studies

JAMES McGrath (‘Women not misled on abortion trauma’, Letters, November 24) may have missed the August 2008 publication of the most comprehensive examination yet undertaken in relation to the psychological impacts of abortion: the American Psychological Association’s two-year evaluation of studies published in peer-reviewed journals since 1989.

It found “no evidence sufficient to support the claim that an observed association between abortion history and mental health was caused by the abortion per se, as opposed to other factors”.

In fact, a number of studies have found that women who are well informed and supported experience good psychological outcomes when they choose to terminate their pregnancies.

No doubt Mr McGrath’s concern for women’s welfare is genuine.

In this case, he might consider not only the more recent outcome of the comprehensive APA review but also the findings of a range of studies that highlight the long-lasting negative psychological effects of the denial of access to abortion services.

Dr Sandra McAvoy

Douglas Road

Cork