Abortion rates

WHILE the increased rate of repeated abortions (your report, 30 May) is tragic, it has long been a cause of concern, as is the attitude of those who see contraception as the solution of the problem rather than as a contributory factor.

On 29 June, 1981, Dr Judith Bury, then of Edinburgh Brook Advisory Centre, voiced (in your columns) her dismay at the “disquieting” increase in clients who wanted to be referred for a second termination.

D Bury, with surprising frankness, added: “We have to take into account the impact of effective contraception on women’s decision-making.

“Twenty years ago women were more resigned to unwanted pregnancy, but as they have become more conscious of preventing conception, so they have come to request terminations when contraception fails.

“There is overwhelming evidence that, contrary to what you might expect, the availability of contraception leads to an increase in the abortion rate.”

RONALD I MACDONALD

Stirling Drive

Glasgow