The doctor said, “If you decide not to keep it once you’re too far along, you’ll have to have an induced abortion, which will cause greater harm to your body.

“I still recommend that you make a decision now. If you have an abortion soon after conception, the harm isn’t as great.

“The next time you want to conceive, you should pay attention to the condition of your body. Don’t take medication indiscriminately, and don’t do any tests that involve radiotherapy.”

Carrie was silent.

She picked up