abortion
GENETIC TERMINATIONS: Canadian news reports [see 5/14/99 communique] regarding the abortion of late term children who were affected with certain disorders failed to point out that Alexandria Hospital staff members offered mothers “the choice of sending them to the United States if they choose to abort.” When asked why, spokesman Donna Angus said, “Well, that’s just the place of choice where they would go. After 20 weeks, the service offered in the United States is not something we offer here.”
Canadian news reports [see 5/14/99 communique] regarding the abortion of late term children who were affected with certain disorders failed to point out that Alexandria Hospital staff members offered mothers “the choice of sending them to the United States if they choose to abort.” When asked why, spokesman Donna Angus said, “Well, that’s just the place of choice where they would go. After 20 weeks, the service offered in the United States is not something we offer here.”
(Reading: “Top Secret Terminations,” Alberta Report, 5/24/99)
birth control pill
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
COMMENT: The pill “frees” women to experience greater STDs, infertility, et cetera!
(Reading: “Cycle Control with Oral Contraceptives: A Review of the Literature,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2/99, pp. S280-287)
DRUG INTERACTION: Certain antibiotics can and do contribute to failure of the pill to protect against pregnancy according to a literature review published in Contraception. To avoid the problem reviewers recommend that professionals “be prepared to present advice for additional contraceptive precautions in a simple and consistent way, backed up by written information and reinforced at regular intervals.”
(Reading: “Interaction Between Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics and the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 71-78)
FAILURE: Researchers site a “study [which] reported that women who missed one or more tablet pill per cycle were almost 3 times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy while taking OCs than were women who did not miss pills.”
COMMENT: Only one need be missed!
(Reading: “Causes and Consequences of Oral Contraceptive Noncompliance,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2/99, pp. S276-279)
condom
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
COMMENT: Of interest is the change in rhetoric: sexually transmitted disease, once known as venereal disease, is now identified as sexually transmitted infection [stis]. Though AIDS and HIV infection are noted in the same location, we do not see any warnings that when condoms fail, such diseases do kill. In fact, failure rates are not part of the hype.
(Reading: Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs Population Report)
fetus a human being?
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
(Reading: “Judge Rules Fetus Is Not ‘Human Being,'” (Fredericksburg, Va.) Free Lance Star, 5/27/99; a copy of the complete decision is available from ALL upon request)
imposed death
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
(Reading: “Prosecutors and End-of-Life Decision Making,” Archives of Internal Medicine, 1999, Vol. 159, pp. 1089-1095)
medical [chemical] abortion
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
(Reading: “Side Effects of Mifepristone-Misoprostol Abortion Versus Surgical Abortion,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 107-114)
“morning after” pill
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
(Reading: full page ad copy; or for product information from the manufacturer, see Gynetics)
RISKS? Researchers studied 73,302 women under the age of 50 who collectively received 100,615 prescriptions for post-coital contraceptive pills (PCP). Each woman had to receive at least one prescription to be considered part of the study. Regarding a risk of venous thromboembolism, researchers conclude that women who use PCP find that the risk is “not substantially higher than the risk for users of traditional oral contraceptives, despite the higher content of both estrogen and progesterone present in PCP.”
(Reading: “The Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Users of Postcoital Contraceptive Pills,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 79-83)
politics
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
Republican National Coalition for Life asks that when this language is distorted in the media, pro-lifers write letters to the editor and set the record straight.
(Reading: RNC/Life Report, 5/27/99; Consult Republican National Coalition for Life web site for details)
state legislative news
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
COMMENT: Pro-life strategists claim the losses at least provide a voting record for the coming elections; but one wonders if lawmakers in the state have lost sight of acts that kill fellow human beings and view topics like abortion as debatable, whether the killing takes place because of a pill, a surgical instrument or an act of infanticide redefined for political gain.
(Reading: “In Hartford, a New Battleground for Abortion Debate,” New York Times, 5/23/99)
stem cell research
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
On May 3, American Medical News reported that experimental cell transplants for Parkinson’s disease use autologous brain cells, which would sidestep the problems currently associated with using fetal cells and stem cells harvested from embryonic babies, resulting in the death of those babies. The autologous brain cells are harvested from the patient’s cortex.
(Reading: “Health and Science: For Cell Transplants, Is One Brain Better Than Two?” American Medical News, 5/3/99)
The Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity has published the long-awaited position paper which can be acquired by visiting their web site.
Use correct language when communicating with members of Congress. Human embryo research that destroys the embryonic baby is never morally justified; one may not do evil even when good is expected. See the American Bioethics Advisory Commission web site for detailed scientific data on the reasons why the embryonic baby cannot be mutilated, destroyed or treated as less than a complete human being. Other materials are also available via the complete index at the ABAC web page.
sterilization
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
(Reading: “Venezuela Bishops Oppose Sterilization Campaign,” Catholic World News, 5/27/99)
you
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
reflect
“Then will it appear that he was wise in this world who learned for Christ’s sake to be a fool and despised.”
-Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis, p. 88
pray
Lord, teach me to always serve you without caring about what others may think. Amen.
GENETIC TERMINATIONS: Canadian news reports [see 5/14/99 communique] regarding the abortion of late term children who were affected with certain disorders failed to point out that Alexandria Hospital staff members offered mothers “the choice of sending them to the United States if they choose to abort.” When asked why, spokesman Donna Angus said, “Well, that’s just the place of choice where they would go. After 20 weeks, the service offered in the United States is not something we offer here.”
Canadian news reports [see 5/14/99 communique] regarding the abortion of late term children who were affected with certain disorders failed to point out that Alexandria Hospital staff members offered mothers “the choice of sending them to the United States if they choose to abort.” When asked why, spokesman Donna Angus said, “Well, that’s just the place of choice where they would go. After 20 weeks, the service offered in the United States is not something we offer here.”
(Reading: “Top Secret Terminations,” Alberta Report, 5/24/99)
birth control pill
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
COMMENT: The pill “frees” women to experience greater STDs, infertility, et cetera!
(Reading: “Cycle Control with Oral Contraceptives: A Review of the Literature,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2/99, pp. S280-287)
DRUG INTERACTION: Certain antibiotics can and do contribute to failure of the pill to protect against pregnancy according to a literature review published in Contraception. To avoid the problem reviewers recommend that professionals “be prepared to present advice for additional contraceptive precautions in a simple and consistent way, backed up by written information and reinforced at regular intervals.”
(Reading: “Interaction Between Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics and the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 71-78)
FAILURE: Researchers site a “study [which] reported that women who missed one or more tablet pill per cycle were almost 3 times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy while taking OCs than were women who did not miss pills.”
COMMENT: Only one need be missed!
(Reading: “Causes and Consequences of Oral Contraceptive Noncompliance,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2/99, pp. S276-279)
condom
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
COMMENT: Of interest is the change in rhetoric: sexually transmitted disease, once known as venereal disease, is now identified as sexually transmitted infection [stis]. Though AIDS and HIV infection are noted in the same location, we do not see any warnings that when condoms fail, such diseases do kill. In fact, failure rates are not part of the hype.
(Reading: Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs Population Report)
fetus a human being?
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
(Reading: “Judge Rules Fetus Is Not ‘Human Being,'” (Fredericksburg, Va.) Free Lance Star, 5/27/99; a copy of the complete decision is available from ALL upon request)
imposed death
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
(Reading: “Prosecutors and End-of-Life Decision Making,” Archives of Internal Medicine, 1999, Vol. 159, pp. 1089-1095)
medical [chemical] abortion
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
(Reading: “Side Effects of Mifepristone-Misoprostol Abortion Versus Surgical Abortion,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 107-114)
“morning after” pill
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
(Reading: full page ad copy; or for product information from the manufacturer, see Gynetics)
RISKS? Researchers studied 73,302 women under the age of 50 who collectively received 100,615 prescriptions for post-coital contraceptive pills (PCP). Each woman had to receive at least one prescription to be considered part of the study. Regarding a risk of venous thromboembolism, researchers conclude that women who use PCP find that the risk is “not substantially higher than the risk for users of traditional oral contraceptives, despite the higher content of both estrogen and progesterone present in PCP.”
(Reading: “The Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Users of Postcoital Contraceptive Pills,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 79-83)
politics
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
Republican National Coalition for Life asks that when this language is distorted in the media, pro-lifers write letters to the editor and set the record straight.
(Reading: RNC/Life Report, 5/27/99; Consult Republican National Coalition for Life web site for details)
state legislative news
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
COMMENT: Pro-life strategists claim the losses at least provide a voting record for the coming elections; but one wonders if lawmakers in the state have lost sight of acts that kill fellow human beings and view topics like abortion as debatable, whether the killing takes place because of a pill, a surgical instrument or an act of infanticide redefined for political gain.
(Reading: “In Hartford, a New Battleground for Abortion Debate,” New York Times, 5/23/99)
stem cell research
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
On May 3, American Medical News reported that experimental cell transplants for Parkinson’s disease use autologous brain cells, which would sidestep the problems currently associated with using fetal cells and stem cells harvested from embryonic babies, resulting in the death of those babies. The autologous brain cells are harvested from the patient’s cortex.
(Reading: “Health and Science: For Cell Transplants, Is One Brain Better Than Two?” American Medical News, 5/3/99)
The Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity has published the long-awaited position paper which can be acquired by visiting their web site.
Use correct language when communicating with members of Congress. Human embryo research that destroys the embryonic baby is never morally justified; one may not do evil even when good is expected. See the American Bioethics Advisory Commission web site for detailed scientific data on the reasons why the embryonic baby cannot be mutilated, destroyed or treated as less than a complete human being. Other materials are also available via the complete index at the ABAC web page.
sterilization
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
(Reading: “Venezuela Bishops Oppose Sterilization Campaign,” Catholic World News, 5/27/99)
you
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
reflect
“Then will it appear that he was wise in this world who learned for Christ’s sake to be a fool and despised.”
-Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis, p. 88
pray
Lord, teach me to always serve you without caring about what others may think. Amen.
GENETIC TERMINATIONS: Canadian news reports [see 5/14/99 communique] regarding the abortion of late term children who were affected with certain disorders failed to point out that Alexandria Hospital staff members offered mothers “the choice of sending them to the United States if they choose to abort.” When asked why, spokesman Donna Angus said, “Well, that’s just the place of choice where they would go. After 20 weeks, the service offered in the United States is not something we offer here.”
(Reading: “Top Secret Terminations,” Alberta Report, 5/24/99)
birth control pill
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
CHLAMYDIA: Dr. Ian Thorneycroft notes that “among 65 oral contraceptive users with intermenstrual spotting, there was an almost threefold increase in the incidence of Chlamydia infection compared with 65 users without such bleeding and an almost fivefold increase over 65 matched nonusers.”
COMMENT: The pill “frees” women to experience greater STDs, infertility, et cetera!
(Reading: “Cycle Control with Oral Contraceptives: A Review of the Literature,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2/99, pp. S280-287)
DRUG INTERACTION: Certain antibiotics can and do contribute to failure of the pill to protect against pregnancy according to a literature review published in Contraception. To avoid the problem reviewers recommend that professionals “be prepared to present advice for additional contraceptive precautions in a simple and consistent way, backed up by written information and reinforced at regular intervals.”
(Reading: “Interaction Between Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics and the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 71-78)
FAILURE: Researchers site a “study [which] reported that women who missed one or more tablet pill per cycle were almost 3 times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy while taking OCs than were women who did not miss pills.”
COMMENT: Only one need be missed!
(Reading: “Causes and Consequences of Oral Contraceptive Noncompliance,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2/99, pp. S276-279)
condom
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
CLOSING THE GAP? Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs offers a Population Report, including more than anyone would like to know about the condom, the need for greater use of condoms, and the estimate that “24 billion condoms should be used each year.”
COMMENT: Of interest is the change in rhetoric: sexually transmitted disease, once known as venereal disease, is now identified as sexually transmitted infection [stis]. Though AIDS and HIV infection are noted in the same location, we do not see any warnings that when condoms fail, such diseases do kill. In fact, failure rates are not part of the hype.
(Reading: Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs Population Report)
fetus a human being?
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
WISCONSIN: The Second District Court of Appeals has ruled that a woman who abused alcohol while pregnant cannot be charged with attempted homicide because “an unborn child is not a human being.” The court said, in part, “We are persuaded that the term ‘human being’ . . . was not intended to refer to an unborn child and that [the woman’s] prenatal conduct does not constitute attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first degree reckless injury.” This decision overruled an earlier circuit court ruling.
(Reading: “Judge Rules Fetus Is Not ‘Human Being,'” (Fredericksburg, Va.) Free Lance Star, 5/27/99; a copy of the complete decision is available from ALL upon request)
imposed death
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
ATTITUDES: Archives of Internal Medicine published a study evaluating attitudes toward physician assisted suicide held by members of the National District Attorneys Association. A total of 2,844 surveys were mailed and 761 were returned (a response rate of 26.8%). Four different hard cases were presented in the survey, and opinions were sought regarding the existence of criminal activity if, for example, a patient were dehydrated, or injected with a lethal drug. Researchers claimed surprise that 40% of respondents would prosecute when morphine tablets were provided to a terminally ill brain tumor patient so that the patient could take her own life. But they add that “unless something rather dramatic or unexpected occurs, the acceptance of physician-assisted suicide in some form now seems certain.”
(Reading: “Prosecutors and End-of-Life Decision Making,” Archives of Internal Medicine, 1999, Vol. 159, pp. 1089-1095)
medical [chemical] abortion
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Researchers admit that evidence of side effects experienced with surgical abortion is “scanty” in medical literature, “particularly with respect to the experiences of women in developing countries.” And they state that “some of the side effects commonly attributed to medical or surgical abortion regimens are symptoms of the underlying condition (i.e. pregnancy) being treated.” They conclude that medical abortion clients do have substantial pain during their abortions, but that such pain can be largely managed.
(Reading: “Side Effects of Mifepristone-Misoprostol Abortion Versus Surgical Abortion,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 107-114)
“morning after” pill
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
ADVERTISING: Preven is the focus of full-page ads in many women’s magazines, with the headline: “The condom broke. But my life stayed intact.”
(Reading: full page ad copy; or for product information from the manufacturer, see Gynetics)
RISKS? Researchers studied 73,302 women under the age of 50 who collectively received 100,615 prescriptions for post-coital contraceptive pills (PCP). Each woman had to receive at least one prescription to be considered part of the study. Regarding a risk of venous thromboembolism, researchers conclude that women who use PCP find that the risk is “not substantially higher than the risk for users of traditional oral contraceptives, despite the higher content of both estrogen and progesterone present in PCP.”
(Reading: “The Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Users of Postcoital Contraceptive Pills,” Contraception, 1999, Vol. 59, pp. 79-83)
politics
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
REPUBLICAN PLANK: The current language is: “The unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. Our purpose is to have legislative and judicial protection of that right against those who perform abortions. We oppose using public revenues for abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life.”
Republican National Coalition for Life asks that when this language is distorted in the media, pro-lifers write letters to the editor and set the record straight.
(Reading: RNC/Life Report, 5/27/99; Consult Republican National Coalition for Life web site for details)
state legislative news
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
CONNECTICUT: The New York Times offers a grim report of progress for pro-life efforts in the state legislature, where the pill bill “sailed through both the House and Senate” while an alleged ban on partial-birth abortion was “overwhelmingly defeated.”
COMMENT: Pro-life strategists claim the losses at least provide a voting record for the coming elections; but one wonders if lawmakers in the state have lost sight of acts that kill fellow human beings and view topics like abortion as debatable, whether the killing takes place because of a pill, a surgical instrument or an act of infanticide redefined for political gain.
(Reading: “In Hartford, a New Battleground for Abortion Debate,” New York Times, 5/23/99)
stem cell research
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
CONGRESS TO ACT! Current information:
On May 3, American Medical News reported that experimental cell transplants for Parkinson’s disease use autologous brain cells, which would sidestep the problems currently associated with using fetal cells and stem cells harvested from embryonic babies, resulting in the death of those babies. The autologous brain cells are harvested from the patient’s cortex.
(Reading: “Health and Science: For Cell Transplants, Is One Brain Better Than Two?” American Medical News, 5/3/99)
The Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity has published the long-awaited position paper which can be acquired by visiting their web site.
Use correct language when communicating with members of Congress. Human embryo research that destroys the embryonic baby is never morally justified; one may not do evil even when good is expected. See the American Bioethics Advisory Commission web site for detailed scientific data on the reasons why the embryonic baby cannot be mutilated, destroyed or treated as less than a complete human being. Other materials are also available via the complete index at the ABAC web page.
sterilization
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
VENEZUELA: The government’s massive sterilization campaign, “Bolivar 2000,” has been denounced by Venezuelan bishops, who state, “It is a very grave abuse of any form of authority to compel poor mothers to undergo sterilization.” The Bishops urge the government to emphasize efforts to create “the economic, social, medical/sanitary, and cultural conditions which will allow married couples to use their reproductive options with full freedom and true responsibility.”
(Reading: “Venezuela Bishops Oppose Sterilization Campaign,” Catholic World News, 5/27/99)
you
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
WISCONSIN: PRO-LIFE DIRECTOR POSITION AVAILABLE – Statewide educational and legislative pro-life organization in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area seeks qualified Executive Director. Candidates should possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills and have management experience. Non-profit management experience and/or education is a plus. Candidates must be 100% pro-life, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide in all cases. Duties include planning, administration and regular interaction with legislators, the media, and grassroots activists. Salary commensurate with experience. For an application form, call 414-796-1111. Completed application packets must be received before June 21.
reflect
“Then will it appear that he was wise in this world who learned for Christ’s sake to be a fool and despised.”
-Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis, p. 88
pray
Lord, teach me to always serve you without caring about what others may think. Amen.