Sterilization For Disabled Children

Sterilization is a complex procedure and has raise debates throughout the world on whether is a treatment that should be recommended with disabled children targeting mostly for young girls starting their menstruation (Caralis, Kodner, & Brown, 2009). People around the world debates over whether sterilization is ethically appropriate treatment for disabled children. Some argue it is the best for their children and some suggest it violates the basic human rights of the child (Freckelton, 2008).

The case study report discussed about the increase of sterilization for children with disability in Australia. The procedures were being done mostly without the authority of the court or tribunal where they play a major role. The involvement of the court or tribunal is necessary as the high court in 1992 announced that parents do not have the right or power to give consent for the sterilization of their children (Reproductive Health Matters, 2013). Mr. Innes the federal disability commissioner suggest that sterilization should only be done in a situation where a person’s life is in danger. The involuntary sterilization of disabled children continues to be a topic discussed throughout Australia with different opinions coming from parents with disabled children. Some agree with sterilization of their children as it gives them a better quality of life and the other half against the procedure as it violates their basic human right. Patient education about sterilization in Australia should be focused, as other options of treatment are not being considered. Sterilization being an invasive procedure should be the last resort treatment use for the client due to the risk (Roy, 2010).

Sterilization of a minor child denies them of human rights and di...

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... to people with mental capacity. Mental illness should be a lower importance compared to human right and dignity. Illnesses should not affect the way we treat a person as they should be respected and have the same human rights as an everyday person. People are getting discriminated everyday due to their illness and are being denied basic human right. Especially people with mental illness as their opinion are not being weighed in decision-making. The powers are given to either the parents or the court or tribunal (Freckelton, 2008).

In conclusion, sterilization remains a hot topic with arguments that supports and against the treatment. All over the world, a broader education about sterilization should be implemented for both the physicians and clients. The case study showed the lack of education in the disability sector about sterilization especially in Australia.