A survey conducted by YouGov shows that 87% of the people in the UK support abortion. However, you could argue that these results were somewhat surprising, given that the UK has very strict abortion laws and that abortion can also be a criminal offence – if the required conditions aren’t met. So, why is there a discrepancy between how people feel, and what the law says? What does the data actually imply? What are the abortion laws in the UK? And what types of abortion services are available? Let’s discuss it below.
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What do the numbers say?: In-depth analysis
The survey, conducted by YouGov, had multiple questions about abortion practices and legislature. The results indicated that many people support abortion in the UK. For example, the survey results showed that 87% of Britons answered “Yes” to the most basic question – “Should abortion be allowed?”. However, the UK has very strict abortion laws. This means that the current legal requirements may not reflect public sentiment.
According to the Abortion Act of 1967, it is possible to get an abortion in the England, Wales and Scotland region for pregnancies up to the 24 week mark. After this gestation limit, the abortion will be considered a criminal offence. However, in some rare cases where, for example, there may be a threat to the mother’s life, or a chance of severe disability to the foetus, this gestation limit may be waived. This would require approval from two separate doctors, after which the abortion procedure can then take place.
With so many strict regulations in place, it is clear that the current laws are not in line with the public’s views and there is an evident need for change. In fact, the survey from YouGov, also revealed how more than 52% Britons felt women should not be prosecuted for getting an abortion outside of the current rules, and that over 74% Britons felt that the laws need to change to establish abortion as a legal right.
It is clear from the above that the majority of people believe that abortion – which is an essential medical practice at this point, should not be seen as a criminal activity. A change in the regulations can allow couples to make informed family planning decisions, and reduce any threat to life of the mother.
Types of abortion available in the UK
For individuals who wish to terminate an unwanted pregnancy, it’s important to be aware of both the regional regulations, and the types of abortion services available. Currently, in the UK, there are two types of abortion services available: medical abortions (abortion by pill) and surgical abortions.
Medical abortion
Medical abortion refers to the termination of pregnancy using abortion pills. These pills, mainly Mifepristone and Misoprostol, work together to create miscarriage-like symptoms in the body, thereby terminating the pregnancy. To delve a bit deeper, the mifepristone pill is usually taken first to limit progesterone production, an important hormone for pregnancy development. After 24-48 hours, the Misoprostol is then taken, to expel the pregnancy from the uterus by inducing contractions. During the process, it’s common to experience cramps, nausea, and diarrhoea, but these side effects do pass.
A medical abortion can be done at home with the approval of a qualified medical practitioner – and many private clinics now offer an abortion pill by post service. However, it is important to note that this type of abortion is only possible during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. If you would like to opt for a medical abortion, you can choose to do this via the NHS, or via a private clinic.
Surgical abortion
If you’re between 10 and 24 weeks pregnant, then you have the option of getting a surgical abortion. A surgical abortion involves using surgical medical equipment to expel pregnancy from the uterus, in a process also known as dilation and suction (D&E). It is carried out by a qualified practitioner, in an approved medical setting, to minimise the chance of complications. While this type of abortion service is extremely safe, you might still experience some side effects such as bleeding, headaches and fever.
Both of these services, as discussed above, are both available on the NHS, but there is a waiting list. This is where specialised private clinics can help, as they offer a high quality service, with short wait times, and easy access to appointments. These abortions clinics often use highly advanced medical equipment. The services are also run by experienced, and most importantly, compassionate gynaecologists, that offer expert support throughout the process.
As for the costs, a medical abortion at a private clinic usually starts from £500 in the UK. These costs can vary though depending on the service provider, location, and required services. Some clinics also offer payment plans and insurance support, to make it more accessible for those who choose to go private.
Your body your choice
Getting an abortion is a very personal choice, and a serious decision for any couple. The YouGov survey results indicated that many people in the UK support abortion, and a woman’s right to choose. It also indicated that many people consider abortion as an essential medical procedure, and that UK abortions should reflect this. An abortion is the only safe way to terminate an unwanted pregnancy.
Thanks to the increasing availability of private clinics, it’s now easier to access abortion services in the UK. However, if you’re considering having an abortion, it’s important to have a good understanding of local regulation, and to find out what services are available in your area. That way, you know what your options are and can decide what’s best for you. It’s also important to understand that this can be an emotionally challenging process. That’s why it can also help to keep your loved ones close, have an open dialogue with your partner about family planning, and ask for help when needed.
