Testimony in favor of abortion reform hearings before the Michigan State House Committee on Social Services
Raven, C.
Woman Physician 26(11): 584-586
1971
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-7103 PMID: 5132399 Document Number: 532126
Certain arguments for reform of the abortion laws including prevention of unwanted pregnancies, elimination of illegal abortions, child neglect and abuse, decreases of illegitimate births, and reduction of maternal morbidity were presented before the Michigan State House Committee on Social Services. Dr. Clara Raven, Deputy Medical Examiner of Wayne County testified before the committee because of her experience in dealing with many tragic deaths due to criminal abortions and child abuse and neglect due to unwanted pregnancy. It is contended that the large number of illegal abortions indicate the need for revision of existing laws. Legalized abortion is not intended for population control nor a suitable substitute for contraception. It could help prevent unwanted pregnancies, child neglect or abuse, decrease illegitimate births, and reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. It is noted that legalized abortion with proper counselling and planned parenthood will reduce and even eliminate the need for illegal abortion.