Well, I have a bit of trouble with these types of studies. I must admit, however, that I am a bit biased, as I am a strong pro-choice feminist/activist. However, I did a lot of research on this as an undergrad, and I also have a background as rape crisis counselor, so my "opinion" IS backed up through data.

That being said, this is what I find troubling about the study:

1. Many of these studies are either led, funded, or otherwise supported by anti-choice groups and/or the religious right. Therefore, I wonder if there may be any bias in how the study is conducted and/or how the results are interpreted.

2. Women who choose abortion may be at a higher risk for PTSD even without the abortion. For example:

- There are many women whose pregancy is the result of rape/incest, and very often these women will not report sexual assault as the cause of the pregnancy
- There are many women who choose abortion due to incliment home situations, such as domestic abuse
-(Especially in young women), many become sexually active before they're ready due to difficulties during childhood (family issues, etc.) and these women tend to be less likely to use proper controception, and therefore are at a higher risk for pregnancy and PTSD in itself
- Many, (in fact most), women who choose abortion do so because they cannot provide what is needed for a child, financially and/or emotionally. If these women are more likely (than women who choose to bring the fetus to term) to have an unstable background, (again financially, emotionally, etc.), then it would make sence that they would also be at a higher risk for PTSD

3. These types of studies often influence both the medical community as well as women deciding on abortion. It's as if a warning is attached. However, we will never know the psychological impact of THESE women had they chosen to carry the fetus to term. Yes, we may compare them to those who decided not to abort, but these two groups of women are NOT the same and should not be treated as such.

4. Studies like this often sway policy and law, which may then make it harder for women to obtain abortion. This may then cause more cases of PTSD in the future.

5. Basically, studies such as this make it seem as though women are unable to make the choice for themselves. Believe it or not, (as Rosie the Riveter stated), "we can do it." We do not need doctors, theorists, or anyone telling us what is best for our own bodies, our own lives.

Now I uderstand that there are many women, (especially in certain countries), who are either pressured or forced to abort their fetus. I, as well as pretty much pro all-choice advocates, think this is horrible, as abortion should always be the sole CHOICE of the woman. These cases should be closely examined, and we should work to making sure all abortions ARE, indeed, the choice of the woman.

Anyway, I could stay on this topic forever, and give many more reasons why we must be VERY careful with any study linking PTSD and abortion, but I'm going to stop now.

nic