Abortion

Question 1

What is the legislation associated with termination of pregnancy?

Answer 1

Abortion Act 1967
Legally allowed abortion <24wks

No limit if there is evidence of fatal foetal abnormality or significant risk to maternal life

Two doctors need to sign the certificate

Question 2

What are the responsibilities of doctors in relation to termination of pregnancy?

Answer 2

2 registered medical practitioners must sign
On one of the lawful grounds eg continuance would involve risk to the life of the pregnant women more so than if terminated, necessary to prevent grave permanent injury to the woman, not over 24wk and continuance would involve risk greater to woman, existing children or family than if terminated, risk of severe handicap

Question 3

Is the current legislation on termination adequate?

Answer 3

Questions of neonates <24 wk being kept alive

Current best practice

Question 4

Is it appropriate that the regulations are not the same throughout the UK?

Answer 4

Access to health care should be the same right of everyone
Depends on society and culture
Ethics and morals fluctuate

Question 5

What are the ethical, legal and professional aspects of contraception?

Answer 5

Must respect the patients right to make their own decisions eg doctor must provide the method patient asks for
Informed and advised
Doctor has right to claim conscientious objection however should refer to another doctor
Unethical to give medical advice based on personal beliefs
Must follow Fraser guidelines if a minor
Obliged to follow patient confidentiality