ethical considerations
Last edited 02/2022
The 1967 Abortion Act lays down that no persons are required to participate in any treatment authorized by the Act to which they have a conscientious objection unless the treatment is necessary to save the woman's life or prevent serious injury.
This does not absolve the practitioner of his/her general duty of care. Where the doctor feels unable to be involved in an abortion, the patient should be referred to another practitioner.
The act makes no provision for "abortion on demand" or abortion for social reasons. However the assessment of the threat to maternal health includes social factors such as support from the father, financial status etc.
All women seeking abortion have the right to confidentiality. Only in exceptional circumstances, where the health, safety or welfare of a minor or other persons is at risk, may information be disclosed to a third party.
Reference:
- Royal college of obstetricians and gynaecologists (RCOG) 2011. The care of women requesting induced abortion. Evidence based clinical guideline number 7.