Sex selection and abortion: keep within the law

Three cases of doctors allegedly offering abortions solely because the foetus was not the sex preferred by the parents have been reported in the media.

Abortions provided solely on grounds of the sex of the foetus are not legal in the UK. We have launched investigations into the fitness to practise of the doctors involved. We also want to remind all doctors that they must work within the law.

The Abortion Act 1967 defines the circumstances in which a pregnancy may be terminated without those involved being guilty of an offence. The Act applies in England, Wales and Scotland. The Act does not extend to Northern Ireland.

Medical defence organisations, and trust or board legal departments can provide further advice on the law and abortion. Advice is also provided by the *Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Chief Medical Officer for England.

‘These are serious allegations and we are looking into them as a matter of urgency. Doctors who do not comply with the law relating to abortion are putting their registration and careers at risk,’ said Niall Dickson, the Chief Executive of the GMC.  

Updated: 22 August 2012  

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