City GP’s abortion warning
‘Legislation must not be changed’
A TOOWOOMBA GP is warning against proposed changes to Queensland’s abortion laws which could see terminations performed almost up to the time of birth.
The proposed bill before the state parliament would legalise abortion up to 22 weeks for any reason at all, and after that with the permission of two doctors for a wide range of socio-economic reasons.
Toowoomba GP and president of the Toowoomba branch of Cherish Life Queensland Dr Donna Purcell said these could be any two doctors, “even fellow abortionists”.
She said women who have had an abortion could develop mental health issues that remained for some time.
“We know that it can cause emotional and psychological damage (to the woman) that can last for years,” Dr Purcell said.
“If they’re going to allow abortions in later stages we’re going to get more of that.
“We have concern for both mother and child.
“After three months it’s a fully formed human being, it’s undeniably a human being and demands respect.
Currently abortions are performed in Queensland public hospitals for life threatening conditions and for serious or lethal foetal abnormality.
Dr Purcell said often the woman carrying the baby didn’t want to have an abortion but was pressured by either a partner or family member to have the procedure done.
Dr Purcell urged concerned residents to contact their State MP to voice their concerns about the proposed legislation.
“They should contact their local member of parliament as well as the office of the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition,” she said.