T.H. reacts to Mourdock

TERRE HAUTE Ind. (WTHI) - Rape victims across the country may feel they're the one's who are impacted the most by Richard Mourdock's debate statement. 

Tuesday night Richard Mourdock Indiana Republican Senate candidate gave his opinion in a televised debate as to why women end up pregnant as a result of rape.

Hailee Lauritzen, Sexual Assault Therapist with CODA says many times rape victims feel ashamed and guilty; it’s not something someone wishes for.

"Most women don't want to tell what happened to them because they're afraid of what people are going to think,” said Lauritzen.

Any rape counselor will tell the public that woman don’t ask to be raped, no one says please rape me.

But when someone is raped, Lauritzen says people are quick to offer their point-of-view.

"It's defiantly something everyone wants to give their opinions on but the only person that is forever haunted with these decisions, is the woman who has to make those choices,” said Lauritzen.

Wednesday Mourdock issued a statement clarifying his words.

But, whether Mourdock twisted his words, Lauritzen says if a rape victim has limited health options they might make a dangerous decision.

Lauritzen says "There would be a lot more illegal procedures happening and a lot more illegal choices being made because they might  feel that would be they're only option."

Whether mis-spoken, or misunderstood, Mourdock made a strong statement that impacted many lives in many different ways.

All the more reason for his supporters, and opponents to make their decision heard, on November 6th.