Early termination of pregnancy

Abstract

The women in this study seeking a termination of pregnancy approached their GP and were referred to a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at an outpatient clinic at the local hospital. Once the termination was agreed an appointment was made for the termination at the day surgery unit. The women could themselves have approached a private clinic in the area or been referred by their GP. There is an NHS contract for a charitable organisation to provide NHS-funded care for some local residents. One woman said her GP discussed this option with her but she could see no benefits in going to the clinic. It was assumed for the other women that they would not be able to afford the fee. There are voluntary pregnancy advisory services in the town but none of the women approached these agencies.