To the Editor.—Since we are dealing with a problem wherein feelings and emotions play so significant a role, I do not believe that I will be able to answer Drs. Sheeran and Smyth to their satisfaction, but I will try.
First of all, I, and many others, share their concern for the welfare of the "unborn child," or rather for the embryonic life that may become a child. Against this, however, we must weigh the hazards for the patient's physical and mental health as well as the potential dangers of a criminal abortion to which she must turn if qualified medical help is denied her. I am her physician, not her religious or spiritual adviser, and therefore I believe I should conduct myself in a manner that I believe is most appropriate for continued good health.
Once again, I do not dismiss the knowledge that a potential human life