Anti-abortion law is challenged in Oklahoma

An advocacy group filed a suit in Oklahoma County District Court over a state law that prohibits a woman from having an abortion unless she first has an ultrasound. The law requires that the screen be turned toward the woman and that the doctor describe to her what it portrays, including the fetus's dimensions. According to The New York Times (10/10/08), the suit filed by the Center for Reproductive Rights says the law, which was scheduled to go into effect November 1, intrudes on privacy, endangers health, and assaults dignity. Supporters of the law hope it will curtail abortions in the state.

Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi also require that an ultrasound be performed before a woman can have an abortion.