By Joe Landrum

There are more than one-million abortions each year in the U.S. – more that 52 million since Roe. In addition to the loss of the child's life, the physical and psychological toll of these losses on so many women and their families is profound.

Many of us have encountered the argument that complications from "safe" legal abortion are rare and generally mild. Pro-lifers have always known better, and as more and more studies confirm that abortion poses serious risks, we need to make sure we are prepared with the facts when this discussion arises.

For anyone engaged in counseling at a pro-life pregnancy centers, or anyone who frequently discusses the issue of abortion among friends and family, "Women's Health after Abortion: The Medical and Psychological Evidence" can be an invaluable resource.

Published by the De Veber Institute in 2003, the 2nd edition of this excellent book is now out of print. Fortunately, the complete text is available on-line at http://www.deveber.org/womens-health-after-abortion.

The authors of "Women's Health after Abortion" begin with a chapter discussing the limitations of many previous studies that find no evidence of negative side effects. That they were seriously flawed is very useful information for anyone who encounters this claim.

The authors go on to examine in detail many aftershocks to women that even pro-lifers may not be familiar with. Compared to women who carry their babies to term, there is an increase in such self-destructive behaviors as alcohol and drug abuse, and even suicide among women who abort.

"Women's Health after Abortion" also discusses such physical complications as infections, increased risk of breast cancer, and complications affecting subsequent pregnancies. The book also examines chemical abortion methods and complications associated with these techniques.

Lobbyists and legislators promoting informed consent legislation, counselors who deal with pregnant women, teachers in health or biology departments, and anyone who frequently finds him or herself defending the pro-life position should have access to this research. It's available at the click of a mouse.

Joe Landrum is Administrative Assistant, National Right to Life. Please send your comments to daveandrusko@gmail.com. Please send all of your comments to daveandrusko@gmail.com.  If you like, join those who are now following me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/daveha.