The Editor, Sir:

The controversial issue of abortion goes beyond the expulsion of the foetus from a woman's womb. Its effects can be long lasting, and the challenges left on an individual's psyche can last for the rest of her life.

Hence, when a woman decides on this course of action, one would at least expect a great deal of thought, humiliation and sacrifice being involved. Therefore, should legislators/government be entrusted with this decision? Or is this a personal decision by the individuals involved? The answer is far from simple and the debate between pro-life and pro-choice groups may never end.

Several factors have to be considered apart from the rights of the woman and the rights of the unborn child. Hence, scientific and technological advances should influence any legislative decision, as well as the social and economic factors that usually create the situation in the first place. However, I am more concerned about the psychological impact.

Teenage pregnancy down

More and more young girls are choosing this option, and while the family planning agency reports that teenage pregnancy is in fact down, abortions are going up. For many teens are faced with a crucial decision. Terminate and face the discrimination and stigma that follow, or continue to add to the cycle of poverty, degradation and suffering that exist in some communities.

The appropriate agencies should continue to employ strategies that will protect our young girls from ever having to make this life-changing decision, while providing counsel for those who already did. For if Jamaicans remain undecided on this issue and continue to operate in denial mode, then the society will give birth to a generation of regrets.

I am, etc,

KAVELLE HYLTON

studyfreekkav3@yahoo.com

Via Go-Jamaica