Thanks to all for your comments and opinions. I have also been watching discussions on this issue on other message boards. Some people on other boards seem to have come to conclusions without possession of all the facts of this case, which are clearly presented in the link in my first post.
I agree that Ashley's case should not set a precedent for care of any other disabled person. Every person should have their care and treatment planned based on their own needs and circumstances.
I referenced our previous discussion on male infant circumcision because it raised with me the same issues of consent, risk and benefit. Ashley will never be capable of consent to any treatment. What are the risks of the treatments she has had? What are the benefits?
Some people have focussed on how keeping Ashley child-sized will make it easier for her to be lifted and moved. I believe the primary reason was that apart from general care, she will be less susceptible to bed sores. Nonetheless, is there a principle that caring for a disabled person has to be as difficult as possible?
Regarding the question of pain associated with surgery, the information presented in the parents' website (linked in my first post) was that removal of immature breast buds was a simple procedure not comparable to adult mastectomy. I don't know whether the same conclusion can be drawn regarding hysterectomy in a child.
I remember caring for a 3 month old infant. Now he weighs over 20lb, and is a walking, pointing, chattering bundle of mischief. This morning he collected all the clean washing drying on the radiators and put it in the washing machine. I believe that his interest in laundry is likely to wane as he grows up.
I can understand why Ashley's parents have taken these decisions. Interestlingly they say that there was no dilemma for them because it was absolutely clear that it was the best thing for Ashley.