Five American women have died from infections after undergoing RU-486 abortions, and another died from an undiagnosed ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Over 800 others have suffered serious or life-threatening adverse health effects. Women in Canada, Sweden and the United Kingdom have also died after taking RU-486.
Deirdre A. McQuade, Director of Planning and Information at the USCCB Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, attended the event and observed: “Women seeking elective chemical abortions remain at risk with RU-486 on the market.”
“We continue to call for the passage of Holly’s Law to temporarily suspend FDA approval of RU-486 while its approval process is reviewed,” Ms. McQuade said.
“Holly’s Law” (H.R. 1079) is named in memory of Holly Patterson, a young California woman who died from septic shock after undergoing an RU-486 abortion.
“The CDC workshop is a constructive step, but no substitute for the provisions in Holly’s Law, as it neither addresses the distinct risks posed by RU-486 nor offers any immediate protection of women’s lives,” Ms. McQuade said.