The American College of Pediatricians concurs with the body of scientific evidence that human life begins at conception. As pediatricians, we assert the inherent worth of all children, consider them the most vulnerable yet with the greatest potential, and affirm as our mission to enable all children to reach their optimal physical and emotional health and well-being from the moment of conception. All pediatricians should demand the full recognition of the rights of the child before birth including the right to be loved and cared for, and the right to grow and develop without environmental hazards or aggressions. Human life, irrespective of the stage of development is inviolable and worthy of pediatric defense.

Abortion kills children. The majority of abortions are carried out for convenience rather than medical indications. Most maternal health factors that are said to demand termination of the pregnancy can be identified and treated without sacrificing the life of the fetus. When there is possibility of viability of the infant, the premature baby should be delivered and provided life sustaining medical treatment.

Those who promote the legalization of abortion argue that the work of the “clandestine abortionists” results in a large number of complications and maternal deaths. They propose that making the procedure legal would put the pregnant mothers in the hands of experienced practitioners resulting in a “safe” procedure without the same complications and maternal deaths. This argument is not supported by the experience in countries with legalized abortion. There are many instances where the “safe” procedure has resulted in serious complications and maternal death. The medical and psychological consequences that are so prevalent after the operation make this a very unsafe procedure for the pregnant woman as well. Abortion is never a “safe” procedure for the unborn child.

The American College of Pediatricians defends human life from conception and rejects  abortion as a solution to maternal physical or psychosocial illness or discomfort.  

President: Joseph R Zanga, MD

Vice President: Tom Benton, MD

Secretary: Felipe E Vizcarrondo, MD

Treasurer: Den A Trumbull, MD

Executive Director: Vicki A Tucci, Esq

Web site: www.ACPeds.org

The American College of Pediatricians is a national medical association of licensed physicians and healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. The mission of the College is "to enable all children to reach their optimal, physical and emotional health and well-being." We promote "a society where all children from the moment of their conception are valued unselfishly." The College further notes, "that children are the future of our nation and society. As such, they deserve to be reared in the best possible family environment and supported by physicians committed to ensuring their optimal health and well-being."