Abortion: A Doctor's Perspective/A Woman's Dilemma - Hardcover

Sloan, Don; Hartz, Paula

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1556113412 ISBN 13: 9781556113413

Publisher: Dutton, 1993

Synopsis

A firsthand witness to the effects of botched illegal abortions in the 1960s and an instrumental lobbyist for the passage of the nations' first liberal abortion law provides a balanced personal essay and social history of the issue. 25,000 first printing. $25,000 ad/promo.

About this title

From Publishers Weekly

Sloan, a New York City obstetrician, gynecologist and sex therapist, and Hartz, who writes educational materials, have penned a straight-talking memoir that states the case for choice compassionately and eloquently. Most powerful of all is the first chapter, about Sloan's experiences as a medical resident in the days before abortions were legal. In searing detail, the authors describe women brought into hospital emergency rooms after botched abortions, some self-induced, others performed by back-alley abortionists. A more palatable section follows, explaining why Sloan started performing abortions at the first legal abortion clinic in New York City. Elsewhere the authors discuss individual women's decisions to have abortion and their struggles. A chapter chronicling Sloan's encounter with another gynecologist, a one-time abortion-rights advocate who now squarely opposes abortion, adds depth and enhances Sloan's credibiity. Both sensible and sensitive, this entrant in the abortion-rights controversy reflects a valuable perspective.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

A physician active in the pro-choice movement since the early 1960s, Sloan provides a unique perspective with his memoirs. Using case histories, anecdotes, and conversations with associates, he discusses the medical, legal, and ethical aspects of abortion with compassion for the women, their partners, and the healthcare workers involved. He examines the delicate balance between the right of women to choose and the right of the unborn, and recognizes the difficulties involved in deciding to terminate or continue a pregnancy. He eloquently points out that while no one likes abortion, it is sometimes necessary and must be available to women who need it. He also stresses the need for adequate birth control and improved economic conditions that will diminish the need for abortion. This thoughtful book is recommended for all collections.
- Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L., Cal.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Dutton
• Publication date: 1993
• ISBN 10: 1556113412
• ISBN 13: 9781556113413
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 257