Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Virginia Department of Health
 
Board
State Board of Health
 
chapter
Regulations for Licensure of Abortion Facilities [12 VAC 5 ‑ 412]
Action Amend the Regulation after Assessment and Receipt of Public Comment
Stage NOIRA
Comment Period Ended on 7/10/2019
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7/10/19  6:15 pm
Commenter: Erin Parish-Gibson

Excessive regulation harms women, not protects them
 

The vast majority of abortions are done either by simple medications taken by mouth or in a 5-10 minute procedure no more difficult or risky than a dental procedure such as a having a crown placed. The likelihood of a serious complication developing is less during a first trimester abortion than it is during many minor procedures done in a dermatologist or allergist's office. To regulate centers as though they were performing complex surgeries on patients with serious medical conditions only restricts public access to these facilities. Making women wait or travel to receive an abortion will not change their minds about having one, it will only cause the undesired pregnancy to have more negative impact on their health and financial well-being. When and if access to safe, affordable abortion is taken from them, these women will be forced to make desperate choices which may cause irreparable harm to them. The majority of women choosing abortion already have one or more children; making unnecessary restrictions to this type of care is not in the best interest of them or their parents.

As a Certified Nurse-Midwife/ Nurse Practitioner, I have cared for thousands of women as they prevent, end or continue pregnancies. Almost all have carefully considered their options. They do not need government agencies to put obstacles in their way that serve no health purpose.

CommentID: 73424