South Carolina abortion ban with unclear 'fetal heartbeat' definition creates confusion, doctors say

The South Carolina Supreme Court upheld a ban on most abortions this week but left undecided the question of when, exactly, the “fetal heartbeat” limit begins during pregnancy. Doctors practicing under the strict law cannot punt on that question. Up for debate is whether the law's definition of “fetal heartbeat” as “cardiac activity" or the “rhythmic contraction of the fetal heart” refers to the same or two separate points in a pregnancy. Physicians say the unclear guidance is chilling medical practice and abortion providers seek a rehearing based on the “ambiguity." Republican South Carolina Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey says the law provides precise directions for medical professionals.