Download This PaperPrenatal Management of Anencephaly
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Vol. 102, pp. 304-308, 2008
6 Pages Posted: 8 Sep 2008 Last revised: 10 Nov 2008
Date Written: September 1, 2008
Abstract
About a third of anencephalic fetuses are born alive, but they are not conscious or viable, and soon die. This neural tube defect can be limited by dietary consumption of foliates, and detected prenatally by ultrasound and other means. Many laws permit abortion, on this indication or on the effects of pregnancy and prospects of delivery on a woman's physical or mental health. However, abortion is limited under some legal systems, particularly in South America. To avoid criminal liability, physicians will not terminate pregnancies, by induced birth or abortion, without prior judicial approval. Argentinian courts have developed means to resolve these cases, but responses of Brazilian courts are less clear. Ethical concerns relate to late-term abortion, meaning after the point of fetal viability, but since anencephalic fetuses are nonviable, many ethical concerns are overcome. Professional guidance is provided by several professional and institutional codes on management of anencephalic pregnancies.
Keywords: abortion, anencephaly, induced birth, late-term abortion, lawful abortion, maternal health, termination of pregnancy
JEL Classification: K10, J13, I18, I10
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Rebecca J. Cook
University of Toronto - Faculty of Law ( email )
78 Queen's Park Cr.
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2C5
Canada
416-978-4446 (Phone)
416-978-7899 (Fax)
Bernard Dickens (Contact Author)
University of Toronto - Faculty of Law ( email )
78 and 84 Queen's Park
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2C5
Canada
416-978-4849 (Phone)
416-978-7899 (Fax)