31 March 2020

Home abortions to be permitted to reduce exposure to coronavirus

Women and girls in England will be able to have home abortions during the coronavirus outbreak, the Government has ruled.

The ruling is the latest in a number of changes to abortion policies during the pandemic.

Initially, those seeking terminations were told the service would be available, but this was later reversed.

Following pleas from charities, the Government has since ruled that patients can take two pills at home instead of having to travel to a clinic and risk exposure to covid-19.

Patients must still have the clearance from two medical professionals before the termination is granted.

The Department of Health in Northern Ireland told BBC Newsbeat: "Women from Northern Ireland could continue to use the services offered in England. 

"The Covid-19 situation will require reconsideration of how this service can be made available to women living in Northern Ireland."

Scotland and Wales have confirmed they will be following the same guidelines as those in England.

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