Abortion Care as Moral Work: Ethical Considerations of Maternal and Fetal Bodies

Abortion Care as Moral Work is a collection of essays that explore the moral dimensions of providing abortion care, featuring the perspectives of abortion providers, counselors, clinic owners, neonatologists, bioethicists, and historians. The anthology addresses the historical context and challenges of delivering abortion care, the motivations of abortion providers, and the ethical frameworks supporting it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Abortion Care as Moral Work is a groundbreaking collection of essays that delves into the complex and multifaceted realm of abortion care as a moral endeavor. This anthology brings together a diverse range of voices, including abortion providers, abortion counselors, clinic owners, neonatologists, bioethicists, and historians, who collectively explore the ethical dimensions of providing abortion care. Through their compelling narratives and insightful perspectives, the contributors shed light on the historical context, present-day challenges, and the moral implications of this critical healthcare service.

In four distinct subsections, the anthology delves into the various aspects of abortion care. The first section, titled "Providers," focuses on the experiences and motivations of abortion providers. These individuals, who face immense pressure and stigma, share their personal journeys and the ethical considerations that guide their work. They discuss the challenges they encounter in offering feminist-inspired services, particularly in the face of anti-abortion regulations that seek to restrict access and limit women's reproductive rights.

The second section, titled "Clinics," explores the physical and logistical aspects of providing abortion care. The contributors discuss the importance of safe and accessible healthcare facilities, the role of medical professionals, and the challenges of operating in a politically charged environment. They also address the need for comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including contraception and prenatal care, to ensure the well-being of women and their families.

The third section, titled "Conscience," delves into the ethical dilemmas and moral quandaries that abortion providers face on a daily basis. The contributors explore the moral frameworks that support abortion care and fetal research, as well as the complex ethical considerations involved in providing care to pregnant individuals. They discuss the moral implications of different abortion procedures, the role of empathy and compassion in healthcare, and the importance of respecting the autonomy and dignity of women.

The fourth section, titled "The Fetus," examines the ethical and philosophical debates surrounding the status of the fetus. The contributors explore the scientific and medical aspects of fetal development, as well as the moral and ethical considerations that arise when considering the rights and interests of the fetus. They discuss the ethical frameworks that support the termination of pregnancy, the potential consequences of abortion, and the importance of respecting the autonomy and dignity of pregnant individuals.

Through their collective contributions, the authors in Abortion Care as Moral Work provide a feminist moral foundation to reassert that abortion care is moral work. They challenge the notion that abortion is solely a medical procedure and argue that it is a deeply personal and ethical decision that requires careful consideration and respect for the rights and dignity of women. The anthology serves as a powerful tool for promoting dialogue, raising awareness, and advocating for the provision of safe and accessible abortion care.

In conclusion, Abortion Care as Moral Work is a groundbreaking collection of essays that sheds light on the ethical dimensions of abortion care. By bringing together a diverse range of voices and perspectives, the anthology offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this critical healthcare service. It serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of abortion providers, counselors, clinic owners, and other healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that women have the right provide the care they need and deserve. This anthology is a must-read for anyone interested in promoting reproductive justice, understanding the complexities of abortion care, and advocating for the rights and dignity of women.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 155 x 237 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813597270