Ethical and legal issues regarding selective abortion of fetuses with Down syndrome

Abstract

Selective abortion of fetuses with Down syndrome was discussed in terms of current abortion perspectives, genetic testing, legislation, and ethical principles. Legal doctrine and practice were presented in terms of the disparate treatment given the fetus with Down syndrome as compared to the fetus with no apparent disabilities. Finally, the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, fidelity, and justice were offered as guidelines for the examination of the legal double standards imposed by current legislation.