[SWTXBelle]

DF - the eyebrow waxing is actually a better example than it might first appear. The rationale behind the regulations of cosmetology is often medical - you can hurt someone, so it is in the interest of the state to regulate it. Currently in Texas there is a debate about threading - cosmetologists argue that it must be done only in licensed facilities, while many argue that because the potential for injury is so slight it is fine to have it done in, for example, malls.
I'd say comparing abortion regulations to those applied to flu shots is more of a stretch. Flu shots have no demonstrated risk that would necessitate they only be given in hospitals. Again, we need firm data.
I don't buy the "ultrasounds are only a delaying tactic" argument. The stage of development does impact what can and can't medically be done. Informed decision is a component of every surgical procedure - if women are to make a choice, shouldn't they have as much information as possible? (rhetorical question) And just because a woman might have an emotional response doesn't mean she shouldn't still understand exactly what will happen in an operation. I dealt with a breast cancer scare - my reaction was VERY emotional, but I still had to deal with the realities of the situation and the possible procedures. I needed all the information in order to make an informed choice. That's true for all medical decisions.
Even Roe v. Wade distinguishes between the three trimesters in terms of balancing the rights of a pregnant woman and the rights of the fetus. I think we see this recognition in the fact that studies have shown a higher percentage of support for abortion on demand in the first trimester than the second or third.
It seems to me that viability is a common accepted line of demarcation - not for the black/white, abortion-on-demand-until-the-baby-crowns camp and the no-abortion-ever-no-matter-what crowds, admittedly. The problem of course is that viability is much earlier today than back in 1979.A former student had a daughter who weighed 1 1/2 lbs., 4 months early. She and the baby are now home and the baby is doing very well.

I think one thing we can agree on is that without objective data it is hard to argue convincingly for EITHER side of increased/decreased regulation. (Look at me underailing the thread). Perhaps this horrific incident can result in a close look at the data so the public CAN decide whether or not increased regulation, or a revamping of enforcement , is necessary.