Calls are being made by Janet Finch-Saunders, Shadow Minister for Social Care and Young People, for the new law which enables home abortions in Wales to be amended urgently so that any concerned women or girls are able to access a medical clinic or professional if an issue is raised during the prescription process.
The calls come following the Welsh Government’s decision that women and girls wanting to terminate an early pregnancy will be prescribed two pills at home instead of going to a hospital or clinic. The prescription of medication will follow a remote consultation with a medical practitioner via video link or telephone conference.
Commenting on the legal change, Janet said:
“I appreciate that the Health Minister’s decision is routed in concern over Covid-19 and public safety.
“In fact, the decision will be welcome by some charities worried that women and girls with underlying health conditions would be putting themselves at risk by attending hospital for procedure.
“We do not want people turning to dangerous alternatives.
“Whilst the law will be changed so that the home of the pregnant individual will be classed as a place where the treatment of termination may be carried out, I cannot help but worry that home abortions could pose a serious risk to women and girls.
“Is the telemedicine that will be offered as strong a support as seeing medical professionals in person? What measures are in place to protect women who may be pushed into decisions by abusive partners without any consultation?
“I want to ensure that every woman and girl feeling the need to terminate an early pregnancy receives appropriate support in the right place.
“At this time, that place could be the home, but I would encourage the Welsh Government to enable access to a medical clinic or professional if any concern is raised during the prescription process”.
ENDS
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