Illegal abortions caused problems

I suspect the doctor mentioned in a recent letter and I practiced in the time when abortion was illegal. We witnessed all too often the terrible infections, complications, infertility and deaths associated with abortions done without proper aseptic conditions. I had to surgically intervene many times in the care of patients with botched illegal abortions here and abroad.

I presume and hope that most abortions done now are done under better, safer conditions.

I believe there are legitimate reasons for abortion, but with all the methods of contraception available, it should rarely be used on demand for birth control.

We live in a multicultural world and many people have different concepts of the sanctity of life than those who believe that the miracle of life comes as a gift from a creator.

IRA E. BAILIE, M.D.

Denair