Science Tells Us How To Have A Healthy Pregnancy; Should The Law Punish Women Who Don’t?

Science Tells Us How To Have A Healthy Pregnancy; Should The Law Punish Women Who Don’t?


Everyone agrees that a pregnant woman shouldn’t smoke crack or snort meth, right? And the consensus that they shouldn’t smoke cigarettes or throw back a six-back every night is fairly ironclad, as well. Beyond obviously harmful behaviors like alcohol and drug use, however, things get more complicated. And with good reason: Mothers’ own needs and health must be carefully balanced with the needs and health of potential children they’re carrying. After all, pregnant women aren’t simply baby incubating machines. But try telling that to the state of Alabama.