Unwanted Pregnancy
Deciding not to continue with a pregnancy is a difficult and often painful decision to
make, and not one that is made lightly. Often a lot of talking is needed before a woman
can make her choice and be sure that the choice she makes is right for her. There are
several professional organisations that can help such as Brook Advisory, British
Pregnancy Advisory Service or The Family Planning Association and if you are thinking
of terminating a pregnancy it is essential that you talk to a professional.
In addition to speaking to professional counsellors, you must consult your GP, if you
decide to have an abortion.
In the UK it is legal for termination to be carried out up to 24 weeks of pregnancy but
most hospitals and clinics will not consider termination beyond 18 to 20 weeks, so it is
essential that you seek help as soon as you decide not to continue with the
pregnancy.
Before an abortion can be carried out two doctors need to sign a consent form
agreeing that the woman’s health (physical or mental) will be damaged to a greater
extent than if she proceeded with the pregnancy. Social factors are also considered
when doctors are making their decision.
The doctor will then carry out a pelvic examination on the woman to determine the
stage of her pregnancy, and discuss the options for termination and the risks involved.
The doctor will send this request to the nearest hospital or clinic, which will then make
an appointment for the termination to be performed. Sometimes the hospital or clinic
will carry out an ultrasound to confirm the length of the pregnancy.