Update on termination of pregnancy. Issue 4 (April 2020) - Pykett, Rowena
Abstract: One in three women in the UK has had a termination of pregnancy (TOP) by the age of 45. Approximately 200, 000 TOPs occur in the UK each year. In 2018 there were 205, 295 TOPs in England and Wales, and 13, 286 in Scotland. The provision of TOP services is a vital healthcare resource which needs to be provided. Education in this area is an important part of training in obstetrics and gynaecology. Whilst things are improving, there is still stigma attached, and formal teaching is frequently missing from the curriculum of trainees. This review aims to explain and discuss the basics of providing TOP services, address some of the less frequently encountered difficulties, and consider some of the ethical and religious implications that can influence practice. Whatever an individual's view on abortion is, the huge demand for the procedure requires efficient and legal services.