Sir, The recent comments, from the Pro Life movement, on the subject of amniocentesis, display a flagrant disregard for the concerns and anxieties of expectant mothers. Most doctors will occasionally perform blood tests and other investigative procedures, in order to reassure a patient regarding specific fears about their health.
It is perfectly legitimate and appropriate for doctors to use, medical technology for the purposes of reassurance. In fact, it shows that the doctor regards the patient's fears and expectations as a central pillar of the doctor/ patient relationship.
If expectant mothers are concerned that the unborn child may be congenitally malformed, it is good medical practice to dissuade them of these fears through the procedure of amniocentesis. In situations where the worst fear is confirmed, then the mother can prepare herself antenatally to cope with this situation.
It ought to be a matter of regret that this procedure has only lately been offered in a health service which regards itself as being modern and progressive. Yours, etc.. Kylemore Road, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10.