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Abortion

Abortion means ending a pregnancy so that it does not result in the birth of a child. If a woman thinks she is pregnant but hasn't had a pregnancy test done, she needs to do so as soon as possible.

What is a legal abortion?

In England, Wales and Scotland abortion is legal under 24 weeks of pregnancy if two doctors agree that it is necessary for one of the following reasons:

  • Having the baby would harm the woman's mental or physical health more than having the abortion This involves the woman explaining how she feels about the pregnancy to a doctor
  • Having the baby would harm the mental or physical health of any children she already has

An abortion is also legal at any time in pregnancy if two doctors agree that:

  • The abortion is necessary to save the woman's life or prevent serious permanent harm to her mental or physical health
  • There is a high risk that the baby would be seriously handicapped

Note that the stage of pregnancy is calculated from the first day of the woman's last period. Note also that different laws apply outside England, Wales and Scotland.

Worried? We're here to help!

For information and advice on all aspects of sexual health, text us in confidence now on
07770 266366 or email frisky@bournemouth-pct.nhs.uk