Washington, Jan 23, 2008 -

Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-5) yesterday marked the 35th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision which legalized abortion in the United States, by co-sponsoring the Ultrasound Informed Consent Act (HR 5032).  If passed, this measure would require a doctor to perform an ultrasound, allow the woman to view the images if she so chooses, and provide her with a detailed explanation of the results of the ultrasound, including a medical description of the images.  This legislation would reduce the number of abortions in the United States as it has been proven that women who view ultrasounds of their child are less likely to choose abortion.  The bill places no obligation on the woman, but rather on the doctor to ensure that his/her patient is fully informed prior to making a life-altering decision.

Congressman Lamborn further recognized the anniversary by making the following remarks on the floor of the United States House of Representatives:

“Mr. Speaker, today marks the 35th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision which legalized abortion in the United States. Elective abortion, a tragic practice, is the most common medical procedure performed in the United States. Let me repeat: Abortion is the most common medical procedure performed in the United States, and is perpetuated by a perverse logic that the life of an unplanned child is somehow not of the same value as that of any other child.
 
   A recent study published by the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry in 2006 indicates that women who have had an abortion have a much higher incidence of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, suicidal behaviors and substance abuse. Abortion can also cause physical side effects, such as reduced fertility, hemorrhaging, and even death.

   Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize pregnancy care centers around the country, who defend the lives of the unborn and protect the physical and psychological health of American women who find themselves in unplanned pregnancies every year. Through the support of selfless men and women devoted to a culture of life, these care centers are able to give concrete, practical assistance to women, from pregnancy testing to prenatal vitamins, ultrasound imaging and infant supplies.

   Tragically, many women in the United States are told and believe abortion is the only way. Pregnancy care centers respect these women and their right to know that there are other options. These facilities offer guidance for mothers faced with heart-wrenching decisions. Whether the woman chooses to give the child up for adoption or raise the baby, pregnancy care centers provide counseling, information and support.
   Pregnancy care centers across the world have and will continue to reduce abortion rates, save unborn lives, and help women avoid the psychological and physical damages of abortion.

Tonight, I mourn the 50 million American lives cut short by abortion, and pray that God continues to protect and strengthen those touched by this tragic practice. I will be among those working to end it.”—Congressman Doug Lamborn

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