Currently reading my RDA notes (Reproduction, Development, Aging). As much as I thought I dislike gynaecology, the module itself raise a lot of interesting ethical issues. Was actually studying my "Early Pregnancy" case - and all jumbled of thoughts came into my mind.

Anyway, one time this year, while we were passionately discussing about 'abortion' in class, a friend came and asked me 'what is it like back in Brunei.' I think she had her own thoughts seeing me, a conservative muslim, and already dictated what I was about to say. Which is true. Abortion is illegal in Brunei.

Choosing abortion in Brunei is regarded one of the shameless choices (if it is really a choice) that anyone could ever make. And I think, as far as I know, abortion is not carried out in any medical setting in the country (correct me if I am wrong). And yet, that did not stop anyone from driving to miri or the neighbouring states to get it done, right? Or even to artificially induce abortion, in their own homes.

Which is really sad.

Because, unsafe abortions (those not done by health care professionals) worldwide account for a whooping 13% of pregnancy-related maternal deaths. Thats a lot. And avoidable.

I know, abortion should not be the answer in Brunei. Just like what others say, its the overwhelming increase in unprotected sex in teenagers is the hot issue right now. Anyway, some say abortion is murder - and is unlawful even in Islam.

And yet, are we happy to see dead babies thrown into bushes, abandoned at the sidewalk or even tragically, suffocated by their own frightenend mothers?

It is a hard debate. I know abortion is hardly the best thing either, but what about...
A rape victim who became pregnant? Shouldnt the woman eligible for an abortion (if she wants to)?
Or a woman who will get serious complications if ever giving birth. Shouldnt she be given an abortion option too?