Oklahoma Bill Would Force Some Women to Get Vaginal Probe Before Abortion

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Senate has approved several bills that opponents say would make it more difficult or uncomfortable for women to get abortions.

One of the five bills the Republican-controlled Senate overwhelmingly approved Monday would require doctors to use a vaginal probe in cases where it would provide a clearer picture of the fetus than a regular ultrasound. Doctors say this is usually the case early in pregnancies, when most abortions are done.

Abortion rights advocates say that bills, if made law, would give Oklahoma some of the most restrictive abortion laws in the country.

Some of the bills, including the ultrasound bill, will go to Gov. Brad Henry for consideration. Others which will return to the state House.