The legalisation of abortion, it’s costs and strict guidelines are constantly being reviewed all over the world. The UK is no exception.
It was recently announced that British Prime Minister Theresa May and the UK Supreme Court agreed to fund abortion undertaken in England for women from Northern Ireland.
The decision, which was backed by more than 50 MPs from the major parties, has created some controversy due to the fact that in Northern Ireland abortions are only considered legal if the pregnant woman in question’s life or mental health are at risk. Incest, fatal foetal abnormalities and rape are not considered as legal justifications for a woman to have an abortion. Abortion laws are much less restrictive in England.
Before this recent parliamentary decision, Northern Irish women requiring an abortion could travel to England to undergo the procedure in a private practice. This new abortion funding means that these women now have access to free procedures on the NHS (the UK’s National Health Service). With access to this public service, they no longer have to pay or go to private practices to undergo the procedure.
The talk amongst the UK political scene is that Prime Minister Theresa May was forced into approving the funding to prevent a rebellion by conservative back benchers. It has raised questions amongst the public and the media as to just how strong the governments grip on power really is.
Regardless of political implications, the decision is set to ease financial and other stressors for the female population of Northern Ireland. These free public services now replace costly (between £400 and £2000 per abortion procedure) terminations which they also had to travel to England for.
The fact that Northern Irish women have had to travel and pay for termination services in England, and have not had NHS access (despite being tax paying citizens) has been a topic of debate for some time. Not only does the new funding seem to be a step in the right direction for the acceptance of abortion procedures and the legalities that surround them, but also a positive move in terms of women’s rights for the UK, Northern Ireland and the world over.
For information on abortion procedures within Australia, their legalities costs and intricacies visit our website.
Alternatively, you can contact one of our five gynaecology clinics in Wollongong, Canberra, Newcastle, Gosford or Sydney.