The Morning After Abortion Pill Act
by David C. Reardon, Ph.D.
In order to expose the truth about the “morning after pill,” I would encourage state and federal legislators to consider a consumer protection law that would ensure that women receiving a prescription for “emergency contraceptives” are provided with a “plain language” explanation of how this hormonal therapy works. Before providing “EC” to women, physicians and pharmacists would be required to obtain the woman’s signature on the following disclosure form:
“If you have recently engaged in sexual intercourse, the sperm from your partner may have already fertilized your ovum (egg). The human embryo created at this moment is a living, genetically unique human being.
Fertilization can occur in as little as fifteen minutes after intercourse. If fertilization has already occurred, the intended effect of this drug is to harden or disturb the lining of your womb in such a way as to prevent the human embryo from being implanted in your womb. As a result, the human embryo will be aborted and expelled from your body.
The effectiveness rate of this drug in preventing implantation, if ovulation has already occurred, has not yet been determined.
The long term effects, if any, of using this drug at this dosage level have not yet been determined. The effects of this drug, if any, on the development of an unborn child have not yet been determined.”
Legislators might also consider adding this line: “The State encourages you to reflect upon the serious moral questions associated with the use of this or any other substance that may cause an irreversible loss such as abortion.” This line does not impose a moral view on others, but simply reminds the public that we should reflect on the moral implications of our actions.
The law should also provide that failure to obtain a signed consent form would expose the physician and/or pharmacist to lawsuits for violation of conscience and deceptive trade practices. Plaintiffs should not be required to show any other injury. A minimum award of damages might also be provided for by law.
While “EC” advocates will no doubt squawk about the impropriety of being forced to tell the whole truth to people who “really don’t want to know it,” the public debate this bill would provoke would in itself be extremely educational. The title alone, “The Morning After Abortion Pill Act” might do wonders to strip away the veil of deceit that surrounds “emergency contraception” and hormonal birth control methods in general.
Please share this idea with pro-life legislators in your state. The truth is not only out there; it is waiting to be told.
Originally published in The Post-Abortion Review 6(4) Sept.-Dec.1998. Copyright 1998 Elliot Institute.
