Abortion is a simple and quick medical procedure that will bring an end to a pregnancy. It is never performed without the patient's consent, and can only be carried out up to 24 weeks after conception (although abortions this late in a pregnancy are extremely rare). If there's a substantial risk to a woman's life or if there are foetal abnormalities, there is no time limit.

An abortion is either performed using a course of drugs which effectively causes a miscarriage, or the content of the womb is surgically removed under anaesthetic, general or local.

The surgical procedure does involve some discomfort, but this is generally no worse than moderate period pains. On the emotional front, things can be a lot more complex.

The subject of abortion often provokes strong personal opinion, but whatever your feelings, every woman has the right to choose for herself. The alternative to abortion is to keep the baby or put it up for adoption. If you are unsure about having an abortion, consider the following points:

• Are you ready to have a child;
• A child might make the home situation very difficult - sometimes to the point of being thrown out;
• Having a baby might prevent you from finishing school or embarking on a career;
• There might not be anyone around to help;
• Not having enough money to care for a baby properly;
• The baby may be the result of some kind of sexual assault;
• A medical condition may mean that going ahead with the pregnancy places you or the unborn baby at risk.

The Law

Abortion is legal in England, Scotland and Wales up to the 24th week of pregnancy. The law in Northern Ireland is more complicated, and abortion is illegal in the Republic of Ireland.

The Abortion Act states that an abortion may be legally carried out after 24 weeks if:

• Two doctors agree that continuing the pregnancy would risk the life of the mother or risk injury to her physical or mental health.
• Two doctors agree that there is a substantial risk that the child might be born seriously physically or mentally handicapped.
• If you're under 16, your parents must give their consent to end the pregnancy, unless two doctors decide that you are mature enough to understand what the decision really means. Doctors normally insist on having a parent's consent before giving you a general anaesthetic.

If you're pregnant and unsure what to do, always seek professional help. Never have an illegal abortion, or attempt anything yourself. Your GP, a clinic or hospital will give you all the information you will need to reach the decision which suits you best. Whatever you decide, you need to surround yourself with people who care about you so you can get through this traumatic time.

It may seem like you're all alone, but help is always out there. Not just before the abortion, but afterwards too. For full information contact an organisation such as Brook Advisory Centres (0800 0185 023) and talk to experienced professionals who can offer young people confidential advice about sexual and emotional problems. 

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