There is false information circulating concerning NH’s Fetal Protection Act. Fact: Prior to 24 weeks, abortion remains legal for any reason, including rape and incest. Fact: Prior to 24 weeks ultrasounds are not required by law unless there is “significant risk” that the child is 24 weeks gestation. Neither is the mother ever required to look at the image. In addition, NH abortion clinics routinely perform ultrasounds before every abortion in order to protect the mother’s health.
Fact: After 24 weeks abortion is still an option if the mother’s life or physical health is in danger. Fact: A rape/incest exception exists already in the law, prior to 24 weeks. On a personal note, I have interacted with many children born at 24+ weeks, who have survived and thrived. Also, I was in the position of having to deliver quickly due to a possible life threatening situation. My team’s goal was to get my son born asap. A late term abortion would have taken extra time and involved trauma (look up the procedure if you are unsure), which does not sound to me like a good plan for a woman’s health. Please keep the NH Fetal Protection Act in tact.
Beverly Temple
Franklin