Can doctors detect birth defects in pre-born children?
Yes. Doctors now have the technology to medically evaluate children in the womb. One process of detection is called amniocentesis. The process was originally developed by Sir Albert William Liley in 1970 to facilitate blood-exchange for RH babies and later to permit the prenatal diagnosis of abnormalities. Liley was a world-renowned fetologist and staunch pro-lifer from New Zealand. He was the first scientist to personalize the pre-born child – recognizing both the uniqueness in each child and the common factors such as the ability of the child in utero to feel pain. Amniocentesis is performed after the 16th week of pregnancy. Guided by ultrasound, the doctor inserts a needle through the abdominal wall into the uterus and withdraws about an ounce of amniotic fluid that will be examined for signs of chromosomal abnormalities. When the test and diagnosis respect the life and integrity of the pre-born child and are directed toward safeguarding and healing, they are morally acceptable. Man
