Global Abortion Policies Database
A tool to expand knowledge, encourage transparency, and promote accountability.
| Country or Region | |
|---|---|
Hungary |
No
Read more On requestNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. This legal ground recognizes a woman’s free choice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.6.
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| Country | Economic or social reasons |
Foetal impairment |
Rape |
Incest |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the woman |
Mental health |
Physical health |
Health |
Life |
Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hungary |
Economic or social reasonsYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. WHO defines health for member states as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.5.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
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Gestational limit
Abortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information; health protection or social reasons can be interpreted to include distress of the pregnant woman caused by the diagnosis of fetal impairment. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.4.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
Additional notesAbortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. |
RapeYes Related documents:Gestational limit
Abortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The protection of women from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment requires that those who have become pregnant as the result of coerced or forced sexual acts can lawfully access safe abortion services. Prompt, safe abortion services should be provided on the basis of a woman’s complaint rather than requiring forensic evidence or police examination. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.3.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
Additional notesAbortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. |
IncestYes Related documents:Gestational limit
Abortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The protection of women from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment requires that those who have become pregnant as the result of coerced or forced sexual acts can lawfully access safe abortion services. Prompt, safe abortion services should be provided on the basis of a woman’s complaint rather than requiring forensic evidence or police examination. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.3.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
Additional notesAbortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNo Additional notesThe fact that the woman is “partly or fully incapacitated” is a consideration for determining women’s eligibility for abortion in the circumstances permitted by law. |
Gestational limit
Abortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The scope of mental health includes psychological distress or mental suffering caused by, for example, coerced or forced sexual acts and diagnosis of severe fetal impairment. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.2.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
Additional notesAbortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. |
Gestational limit
Abortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Physical health is widely understood to include conditions that aggravate pregnancy and those aggravated by pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.2.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
Additional notesAbortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. |
Gestational limit
Abortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The fulfillment of human rights requires that women can access safe abortion when it is indicated to protect their health. WHO defines health for member states as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.2.
Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7.
Additional notesAbortion is permitted up to the 12th week of gestation if the pregnant woman’s health is severely endangered or if the fetus is likely, on medical indications, to suffer from a severe disability or other impairment. It is permitted up to the 18th week if the circumstances if the pregnant woman a) is partly or fully incapacitated; b) did not recognize the pregnancy in time due to a health reason for which she cannot be held responsible, or due to a medical error, or if the period of up to 12 weeks elapsed because of the failure of a health institution or authority. It is permitted up to the 20th week, or in the event of a delay in diagnostic procedure up to the 24th week, if the probability of the fetus’ having a genetic or teratological malformation reaches 50%. There is no gestational limit if the foetus has a malformation that renders postnatal life impossible. |
LifeNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The human right to life requires protection by law, including when pregnancy is life-threatening or a pregnant woman’s life is otherwise endangered. Both medical and social conditions can constitute life-threatening conditions. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.1.
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OtherThe pregnant woman is in a severe crisis situation. Related documents:Additional notesThe gestational limit in case of abortion in a severe crisis situation is 12 weeks. |
| Country | Authorization of health professional(s) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities only |
Judicial authorization for minors |
Judicial authorization in cases of rape |
Police report required in case of rape |
Parental consent required for minors |
Spousal consent |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat required |
Compulsory counselling |
Compulsory waiting period |
Mandatory HIV screening test |
Other mandatory STI screening tests |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortion |
Restrictions on information provided to the public |
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetus |
Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hungary |
Authorization of health professional(s)Yes Related documents:Number and cadre of health-care professional authorizations required
The health indications that justify the termination of the pregnancy of a pregnant woman shall be established by the unanimous opinion of two medical specialist doctors who have the necessary professional competence. Health indications concerning the fetus shall be established by the unanimous opinion of medical specialists on the staff of any two of the following institutions: the genetic counseling service, the center for prenatal diagnosis, or the department of obstetrics and gynecology of the hospital designated by the competent national institute. The Minister shall issue a decree determining the persons authorized to provide a professional review where there is a difference of opinions. The health indications shall be established based on the methodological guidelines formulated by the competent national institute or college. Where the pregnancy is the result of a criminal act, the criminal act or a substantiated suspicion thereof shall be certified by the authority proceeding in the criminal act. The pregnant woman or, if she is incapacitated, her guardian shall certify the existence of a severe crisis situation by signing the request. Where the pregnant woman is incapacitated, she shall be provided with the opportunity to state her opinion of the pregnancy termination in the procedure of the Family Protection Service. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. The requirement for authorization by hospital authorities may violate the right to privacy and women’s access to health care on the basis of equality of men and women. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.2.
Additional notesThe health indications that justify the termination of the pregnancy of a pregnant woman shall be established by the unanimous opinion of two medical specialist doctors who have the necessary professional competence. Health indications concerning the fetus shall be established by the unanimous opinion of medical specialists on the staff of any two of the following institutions: the genetic counseling service, the center for prenatal diagnosis, or the department of obstetrics and gynecology of the hospital designated by the competent national institute. The Minister shall issue a decree determining the persons authorized to provide a professional review where there is a difference of opinions. The health indications shall be established based on the methodological guidelines formulated by the competent national institute or college. Where the pregnancy is the result of a criminal act, the criminal act or a substantiated suspicion thereof shall be certified by the authority proceeding in the criminal act. The pregnant woman or, if she is incapacitated, her guardian shall certify the existence of a severe crisis situation by signing the request. Where the pregnant woman is incapacitated, she shall be provided with the opportunity to state her opinion of the pregnancy termination in the procedure of the Family Protection Service. |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Restrictions on the range of providers or facilities that are authorized to provide abortion reduce the availability of services and their equitable geographic distribution. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.4.
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Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.
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Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Laws, policies and practices that restrict access to abortion information and services can deter women from care seeking and create a “chilling effect” (suppression of actions because of fear of reprisals or penalties) for the provision of safe, legal services. Examples of barriers include: requiring third-party authorization from one or more medical professionals or a hospital committee, court or police, parent or guardian or a woman’s partner or spouse. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2
Additional notesWhere the pregnancy is the result of a criminal act, the criminal act or a substantiated suspicion thereof shall be certified by the authority proceeding in the criminal act. Related documents: |
Police report required in case of rapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Laws, policies and practices that restrict access to abortion information and services can deter women from care seeking and create a “chilling effect” (suppression of actions because of fear of reprisals or penalties) for the provision of safe, legal services. Examples of barriers include: requiring third-party authorization from one or more medical professionals or a hospital committee, court or police, parent or guardian or a woman’s partner or spouse. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2
Additional notesWhere the pregnancy is the result of a criminal act, the criminal act or a substantiated suspicion thereof shall be certified by the authority proceeding in the criminal act. Related documents: |
Parental consent required for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. The requirement for authorization by parents may violate the right to privacy and women’s access to health care on the basis of equality of men and women. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.2.
Additional notesThe Law on the Protection of the Foetus sets out the following requirement: “In the case of a partially incapacitated person, it is necessary to obtain a statement by the guardian that (s)he has taken notice of the request for a pregnancy termination.” Related documents: |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. The requirement for authorization by a spouse may violate the right to privacy and women’s access to health care on the basis of equality of men and women. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.2.
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Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers, one example of which is the requirement for mandatory ultrasound prior to abortion, that hinder access to and timely provision of safe abortion care should be removed. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 7 - Recommendation.
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WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Many women have made a decision to have an abortion before seeking care, and this decision should be respected without subjecting a woman to mandatory counselling. Provision of counselling to women who desire it should be voluntary, confidential, non-directive and by a trained person. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.1.8.1.
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Waiting period
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. States should consider eliminating waiting periods that are not medically required, and expanding services to serve all eligible women promptly. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.6.
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Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Requirements for HIV and other tests that are not clinically indicated are potential service-delivery barriers. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 88.
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Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Requirements for HIV and other tests that are not clinically indicated are potential service-delivery barriers. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 88.
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Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement, p 10 - Recommendation.
Additional notesSection 170 of the Penal Code (Altering the Gender of an Unborn Child) specifies: "Any person who performs a procedure for the purpose of altering the gender of an unborn child is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment between one to five years." Related documents: |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicYes List of restrictionsIt is forbidden to encourage anyone to terminate her pregnancy or to propagate pregnancy termination by any method. (Protection of Human Life Act)
No advertisement may be disseminated relating to abortions, institutions carrying out abortions, nor to means and procedures for carrying out abortions. (Commercial Advertising Act) WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. States should refrain from limiting access to means of maintaining sexual and reproductive health, including censoring, withholding or intentionally misrepresenting health-related information. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.7.
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Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.4.
Additional notesProcedures to select the gender of progeny prior to birth may be conducted to identify heritable diseases linked to gender or to prevent the occurrence of said diseases. Related documents: |
Other |
| Country | National guidelines for induced abortion |
Methods allowed |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol) |
Where can abortion services be provided |
National guidelines for post-abortion care |
Where can post abortion care services be provided |
Contraception included in post-abortion care |
Insurance to offset end user costs |
Who can provide abortion services |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hungary |
National guidelines for induced abortionYes, guidelines issued by the government Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Standards and guidelines should be developed and updated with the intent of eliminating barriers to obtaining the highest attainable standard of sexual and reproductive health. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3. Standards and guidelines should cover: types of abortion service, where and by whom they can be provided; essential equipment, instruments, medications, supplies and facility capabilities; referral mechanisms; respect for women’s informed decision-making, autonomy, confidentiality and privacy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p. 63.
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Methods allowedVacuum aspirationNot specified Dilatation and evacuationNot specified Combination mifepristone-misoprostolNot specified Misoprostol onlyNot specified Other (where provided)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Vacuum aspiration is the recommended technique of surgical abortion for pregnancies of up to 12 to 14 weeks of gestation. The procedure should not be routinely completed by dilatation and sharp curettage (D&C). Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 1- Recommendation.
Dilatation and evacuation (D&E) and medical methods (mifepristone and misoprostol; misoprostol alone) are both recommended methods for abortion for gestations over 12 to 14 weeks. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 3- Recommendation.
The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 2- Recommendation.
Where mifepristone is not available, the recommended method for medical abortion is misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 2- Recommendation.
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Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol for medical abortion is included on the WHO model list of essential medicines. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.2.5
Chemists/pharmacists can help women avoid unintended pregnancy through provision of accurate contraceptive information, pregnancy tests, contraceptive methods and referral to safe abortion services. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3.1.1.
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Country recognized approval (misoprostol)Yes, indications not specified Related documents:Misoprostol allowed to be sold or distributed by pharmacies or drug storesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol for medical abortion is included on the WHO model list of essential medicines. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.2.5
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Where can abortion services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Decree 32/1992 on the implementation of 1992 LXXIX Act on the protection of the foetus stipulates that termination of pregnancy can be performed solely in health-care facility which meet the requirements laid down in Annex 3.
Abortions after 18 weeks of gestation can be performed only in the county level hospitals listed in Annex 1. Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesYes Decree 32/1992 on the implementation of 1992 LXXIX Act on the protection of the foetus stipulates that termination of pregnancy can be performed solely in health-care facility which meet the requirements laid down in Annex 3.
Abortions after 18 weeks of gestation can be performed only in the county level hospitals listed in Annex 1. Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Abortion services should be available at primary-care level, with referral systems in place for all required higher-level care. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 6- Recommendation.
Additional notesDecree 32/1992 on the implementation of 1992 LXXIX Act on the protection of the foetus stipulates that termination of pregnancy can be performed solely in health-care facility which meet the requirements laid down in Annex 3.
Abortions after 18 weeks of gestation can be performed only in the county level hospitals listed in Annex 1. |
No data
National guidelines for post-abortion careNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Standards and guidelines should be developed and updated with the intent of eliminating barriers to obtaining the highest attainable standard of sexual and reproductive health. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3. Standards and guidelines should cover: types of abortion service, where and by whom they can be provided; essential equipment, instruments, medications, supplies and facility capabilities; referral mechanisms; respect for women’s informed decision-making, autonomy, confidentiality and privacy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p. 63.
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Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNo data found Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNo data found Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNo data found Private health-care centres or clinicsNo data found NGO health-care centres or clinicsNo data found Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The facilities and skills required to manage most abortion complications are similar to those needed to care for women who have had a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage). Safe Abortion Guidelines § 2.2.6.
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No data
Contraception included in post-abortion careNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. All women should receive contraceptive information and be offered counselling for and methods of post-abortion contraception, including emergency contraception, before leaving the health-care facility. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.3.
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Insurance to offset end user costsYes Induced abortion for all womenYes Act LXXIX of 1992 on the protection of foetal life states: “16. § (1) The cost of the pregnancy terminations shall be covered by the Health Insurance Fund where a pregnancy is terminated because of a health condition of the insured pregnant woman or the foetus. (2) The fee payable for pregnancy termination in cases not falling under subsection (1) shall be the same as the fee payable under financing by social insurance. The minister shall issue a decree determining the detailed rules of paying the fee, including rates reduced on the basis of social grounds.”
Decree 32/1992 on the implementation of 1992 LXXIX Act on the protection of the foetus further specifies conditions for co-payments (Article 13) and for exemptions from fees (Article 17.) Induced abortion for poor women onlyNo Abortion complicationsNot specified Private health coverageNot specified Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Financing of abortion services should take into account costs to the health system while ensuring that services are affordable and readily available to all women who need them. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 6 - Recommendation. Abortion services should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans; women should never be denied or delayed because of the inability to pay. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.6.2.
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Who can provide abortion servicesRelated documents:NurseNo Midwife/nurse-midwifeNo Doctor (specialty not specified)No Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNYes Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Subject to gestational age and method, abortion care can be safely provided by any properly trained health-care provider, including specialist doctors, non-specialist doctors; associate and advanced associate clinicians; midwives; and nurses. Health Worker Roles in Safe Abortion Care, p 33- Recommendation.
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Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNYes Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)A range of specific requirements are specified in the Ministry of Welfare Decree on the implementation of the 1992 LXXIX Act on the protection of the foetus. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Abortion facilities within both the public and private sectors should be available at all levels of the health system, with appropriate referral mechanisms between facilities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3.1.
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| Country | Public sector providers |
Private sector providers |
Provider type not specified |
Neither Type of Provider Permitted |
Public facilities |
Private facilities |
Facility type not specified |
Neither Type of Facility Permitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hungary |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesDoctors and health workers cannot be required to perform or contribute to abortions except in cases where the pregnant woman’s life is at risk. |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesDoctors and health workers cannot be required to perform or contribute to abortions except in cases where the pregnant woman’s life is at risk. |
Provider type not specifiedYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesDoctors and health workers cannot be required to perform or contribute to abortions except in cases where the pregnant woman’s life is at risk. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesDoctors and health workers cannot be required to perform or contribute to abortions except in cases where the pregnant woman’s life is at risk. |
Public facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesState health institutions and institutions run by local governments that have an obstetrics-gynecology department have to ensure that at least one group that performs pregnancy terminations shall operate in the institution. Related documents: |
Private facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesState health institutions and institutions run by local governments that have an obstetrics-gynecology department have to ensure that at least one group that performs pregnancy terminations shall operate in the institution. Related documents: |
Facility type not specifiedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesState health institutions and institutions run by local governments that have an obstetrics-gynecology department have to ensure that at least one group that performs pregnancy terminations shall operate in the institution. Related documents: |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
Additional notesState health institutions and institutions run by local governments that have an obstetrics-gynecology department have to ensure that at least one group that performs pregnancy terminations shall operate in the institution. Related documents: |
Concluding Observations issued by respective treaty bodies and selected extracts related to abortion.
| Country | CAT |
CEDAW |
CERD |
CESCR |
CRC |
CRPD |
HRC |
IE HAIT |
SR HEALTH |
SR TORTURE |
SR VAW |
WG-DWLP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hungary |
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CEDAW“While noting the screening programmes and other measures taken to prevent cancer among women, the Committee remains concerned about the high rates of mortality among women due to cancer. The Committee is also concerned that, while the abortion rate has decreased, it remains relatively high. It is further concerned that a comprehensive range of contraceptives is not widely available.”
“The Committee notes the State party’s statement that the new article in the Fundamental Law protecting life from the moment of conception will not be used to restrict the present legislation and the access of women to abortion. The Committee is concerned about campaigns, including a recent poster campaign, supported by the State party that stigmatize abortion and seek to negatively influence the public view on abortion and contraception; the limited access to emergency contraceptives; the subjection of women who want surgical abortion to biased mandatory counselling and a three-day medically unnecessary waiting period; and at the increasing resort to conscientious objection by health professionals in the absence of an adequate regulatory framework. The Committee is also concerned at the limited access to modern, efficient methods of contraception, and the lack of choice for women on whether to give birth at home or in the hospital, due to various obstacles, including the non-recognition of midwives as independent professionals. The Committee urges the State party to: (a) Cease all negative interference with women’s sexual and reproductive rights, including by ending campaigns that stigmatize abortion and seek to negatively influence the public view on abortion and contraception; (b) Provide adequate access to family planning services and affordable contraceptives, including emergency contraception, to all women including women with disabilities, Roma women, women living with HIV/AIDS and migrant and refugee women , i.e. , by covering the costs of range of modern contraceptives under the public health insurance and eliminating the prescription requirement for emergency contraception; (c) Ensure access to safe abortion without subjecting women to mandatory counselling and a medically unnecessary waiting period as recommended by the World Health Organization; (d) Establish an adequate regulatory framework and a mechanism for monitoring of the practice of conscientious objection by health professionals and ensure that conscientious objection is accompanied by information to women about existing alternatives and that it remains a personal decision rather than an institutionalized practice;(....).”
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CRC“In the light of its general comment No. 4 (2003) on adolescent health and development, the Committee recommends that the State party take measures to prevent unwanted pregnancies and abortions among teenage girls by raising awareness about sexual and reproductive health and providing access to contraceptives and confidential sexual and reproductive health services to boys and girls. The Committee also recommends that the State party study the root causes of suicides among children and adolescents and take the necessary measures to prevent such incidents by providing access to adequate mental health services and to psychologists, including emergency care services, and that it take measures to prevent and address drug and alcohol abuse among adolescents. (…) The Committee remains concerned about the large numbers of unwanted pregnancies and abortions among adolescent girls due to the lack of reproductive health education and services.(...)”
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CRPD"The Committee notes with concern that the Act on the protection of the life of the fœtus makes “abortive treatment possible for a wider circle than in general for the fœtuses deemed to have health damage or some disability”(CRPD/C/HUN/1), thereby discriminating on the basis of disability. The Committee recommends that the State party abolish the distinction made in the Act on the protection of the life of the f œ tus in the period allowed under law within which a pregnancy can be terminated, based solely on disability."
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Country specific information regarding abortion related penalties. Information regarding penalties has been presented in English only; this information is not based on an official translation. Please review the source documents provided.
| Country | Penalties deconstructed |
Penalties for woman |
Penalties for provider |
Penalties for person who assists |
Secondary additional considerations/judicial discretion |
Penalties for non-consensual abortion and or negligence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hungary |
Penalties deconstructedLegal grounds specified; penalties for all other abortions |
PenaltiesCriminal Code Section 163 (1) Any person who engages in the removal or expulsion of a fetus is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment not exceeding three years. (2) The penalty shall be imprisonment between one to five years, if the abortion is committed: a) on a commercial scale; b) without the consent of the pregnant woman; or c) causing severe bodily injury or danger to life. (3) The penalty shall be imprisonment between two to eight years if the abortion results in the pregnant woman’s death. (4) Any woman who deliberately destroys her fetus or induces someone to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment not exceeding one year. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 97.
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PenaltiesCriminal Code Section 163 (1) Any person who engages in the removal or expulsion of a fetus is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment not exceeding three years. (2) The penalty shall be imprisonment between one to five years, if the abortion is committed: a) on a commercial scale; b) without the consent of the pregnant woman; or c) causing severe bodily injury or danger to life. (3) The penalty shall be imprisonment between two to eight years if the abortion results in the pregnant woman’s death. (4) Any woman who deliberately destroys her fetus or induces someone to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment not exceeding one year. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 97.
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PenaltiesCriminal Code Section 163 (1) Any person who engages in the removal or expulsion of a fetus is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment not exceeding three years. (2) The penalty shall be imprisonment between one to five years, if the abortion is committed: a) on a commercial scale; b) without the consent of the pregnant woman; or c) causing severe bodily injury or danger to life. (3) The penalty shall be imprisonment between two to eight years if the abortion results in the pregnant woman’s death. (4) Any woman who deliberately destroys her fetus or induces someone to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment not exceeding one year. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 97.
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PenaltiesNone found |
PenaltiesCriminal Code Section 163 (1) Any person who engages in the removal or expulsion of a fetus is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment not exceeding three years. (2) The penalty shall be imprisonment between one to five years, if the abortion is committed: a) on a commercial scale; b) without the consent of the pregnant woman; or c) causing severe bodily injury or danger to life. (3) The penalty shall be imprisonment between two to eight years if the abortion results in the pregnant woman’s death. (4) Any woman who deliberately destroys her fetus or induces someone to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment not exceeding one year. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 97.
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