Abortion Provisions
Section 37 of the HFEA act, amends the Abortion Act 1967. The section specifies and broadens the conditions where abortion is legal.
Women who consider abortion are referred to two doctors. Each doctor then advises her whether abortion is a suitable decision based on the conditions listed below. An abortion is granted, only when the doctors reach a unanimous decision that the woman may terminate her pregnancy. If an abortion is performed without this decision or under any other circumstance is considered unlawful.
Abortion may be granted under one of the following circumstances, if the pregnancy:
- Has not exceeded its 24th week (previously lowered from 28 weeks in the Abortion Act of 1967)
- Has a heightened risk of injury to the physical and/or mental health of the mother, existing children, or family
- Places the mother's life or mental health in jeopardy
- Poses as a risk to the mental and physical health of the mother
- Significant risk or evidence that the unborn child would suffer from physical or mental abnormalities, resulting in a serious handicap
The registered medical practitioner that performs the abortion will continue to act in accordance with the Infant Life (Preservation) Act 1929.
Read more about this topic: Human Fertilisation And Embryology Act 1990
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