Case Study: Fetal Anomaly and Moral Status Modern science and advanced technology make it possible to discover the abnormality of an unborn child while it is in the mother's womb. In the present case, Jessica and Marco, a young couple who recently moved into their apartment, discovered that Jessica is pregnant with a fetal anomaly. Once abnormalities are detected, it becomes heartbreaking and difficult to choose what to do: continue the pregnancy or terminate it. There are several theories about the moral status of the fetus, which can be applied in decision making when the detected anomalies are discussed here together with the individual value, beliefs and interests involved. The writer also presents the reality of the situation and recommends the best solution. Therefore Marco can choose to terminate the pregnancy based on these three theories described and can argue with Jessica but seems to respect Jessica's final voice. Dr. Wilson's position of the fetus also shows a lack of moral agency, theory of sentience and conscience, as evidenced by his advice and decision to abort based on current facts and scientific evidence, genetic anomalies, and quality of life. Maria is against abortion in all circumstances. Her moral status is based on relationship theory and sees the moral status of the fetus based on how Jessica sees herself as a mother-child relationship. Relationship theory states that no one should interfere with each other and is obliged to respect their right as they have mutual relationships like mother-child relationship and family relationship. (CGU, 2015). The fetus deserves the right to live and grow. Jessica must honor the right and moral value of the fetus, then continue the pregnancy and give birth to a child like God. The writer agrees with the relationship theory and believes that everyone has value and has the right to live and decide within the relationship. In the case in question, the fetus has already formed and has become part of social life. Jessica is already bonded to the fetus and hesitates to have an abortion, Marco agrees with Jessica's decision, and Maria emphasizes the mother-child relationship which also reflects the moral status of the fetus. More importantly, no one is sure that the baby will be born with Down syndrome, and although it is too early to say that the baby will be born without arms, the miracle can happen if God wants it and he can be a child of God and be
tags