An 86-year-old abortionist, known for his controversial late-term procedures, has announced the closure of his clinic after over five decades of operation. Dr. Warren Hern, who has performed more than 40,000 abortions, including many late-term procedures, has expressed a deep sense of satisfaction in his work, describing it as his "life’s work." The Boulder Abortion Clinic, which he operated, has now replaced its website with a message marking its permanent closure.
Hern, who retired in January, stated that the decision to close the clinic was not easy. He praised his staff for their dedication and commitment over the years, emphasizing the importance of the work they did together. "It has been a privilege to do this work for almost 55 years," Hern shared, reflecting on his experiences and the relationships he formed within the medical community dedicated to reproductive health.
Despite his retirement, Hern remains an advocate for reproductive rights. He indicated that he would continue to support these principles in new ways, even as he steps away from direct patient care. "I remain committed to reproductive freedom for women," he noted, highlighting his ongoing passion for the cause.
The Boulder Abortion Clinic was one of the few facilities in the United States that provided abortions up to 36 weeks, making it a significant location for those seeking late-term procedures. Hern himself acknowledged the challenges of operating such a facility, including financial burdens and the potential for threats against his life. "No reasonable person would do what I’ve done, and most people are reasonable," he remarked, expressing pride in his work despite the risks involved.
Reactions to the closure have been mixed. Lila Rose, founder of the pro-life organization Live Action, took to social media to express her viewpoint, stating, "After murdering thousands of 2nd & 3rd-trimester babies over five decades, abortionist Warren Hern has ‘retired’ & closed his Colorado killing center. We will not stop working until every killing center is shut down." This statement reflects the ongoing tensions surrounding the abortion debate in America.
The Charlotte Lozier Institute, a pro-life research organization, also reacted to the news. They noted that Hern admitted to performing over 1,000 second- and third-trimester abortions between 1999 and 2004, a fact that raises significant ethical questions about late-term abortion practices. They emphasized the viability of premature infants, citing that the youngest premature baby to survive was born at just over 21 weeks.
Hern’s career has not been without its psychological toll. Early in his practice, he experienced nightmares related to the procedures he performed. However, he eventually learned to compartmentalize those feelings, convincing himself that the emotional strain was a necessary aspect of providing care to his patients. In a 2023 interview, he expressed frustration over questions about performing late-term abortions on healthy women, arguing that every pregnancy carries inherent health risks.
As the conversation around abortion continues to evolve, Hern’s retirement marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate. His facility’s closure may signal a shift in the landscape of abortion access, particularly for late-term procedures. The future of reproductive health services remains uncertain, but the commitment to advocating for women’s rights endures, as demonstrated by both sides of this contentious issue.
For more information on reproductive rights and the current state of abortion laws in the United States, you can visit the Guttmacher Institute or Planned Parenthood. These organizations provide valuable resources and insights into the ongoing discussions surrounding reproductive health.