NHS says community based abortions are safe and high quality

A pilot scheme into early medical abortions (EMAs) performed in community settings has revealed they could be a preferable option for some women.

Initial enquiries have revealed the informal setting and available support of staff at non-hospital facilities offer a “safe, high quality service” for women.

The NHS is to ask its patients and professionals whether they think it would be a good idea to extend the service, as part of a programme to improve women’s sexual health and reduce unwanted pregnancies.

Public health minister Dawn Primarolo said a priority is to further reduce waiting times for abortions.

“The safety of patients must remain paramount and we will now consult with the local NHS and patients to find out whether there is a demand for such a service and how it could best be delivered,” she added.

EMA is a drug-induced termination of a pregnancy of less than 64 days.

Last year pro-choice campaign group Abortion Rights welcomed the news of the pilot scheme, saying it would have a beneficial impact on many women’s lives.