Country or Region | |
---|---|
Ireland |
Gestational limit: 12
Read more On requestYes Related documents:
Gestational limit
A termination of pregnancy may be carried out by a medical practitioner where, having examined the pregnant woman, he or she is of the reasonable opinion formed in good faith that the pregnancy concerned has not exceeded 12 weeks of pregnancy. “12 weeks of pregnancy” shall be construed in accordance with the medical principle that pregnancy is generally dated from the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period. It is defined as 12 weeks plus zero days. 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.
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.
|
Country | Economic or social reasons |
Foetal impairment |
Rape |
Incest |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the woman |
Mental health |
Physical health |
Health |
Life |
Other |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ireland |
Economic or social reasonsNo 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.
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Foetal impairmentNo 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.
Additional notesAbortion is legally permitted where there is a condition affecting the foetus that is likely to lead to the death of the foetus either before, or within 28 days of, birth. Related documents: |
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.
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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.
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Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNo |
Mental healthYes Related documents:Gestational limit
here is no gestational limit in cases when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. 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.
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Physical healthYes Related documents:Gestational limit
here is no gestational limit in cases when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. 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.
|
Gestational limit
here is no gestational limit in cases when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. 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.
|
Gestational limit
here is no gestational limit in cases when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. 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.
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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OtherCondition affecting the foetus that is likely to lead to the death of the foetus either before, or within 28 days of, birth Related documents: |
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ireland |
Authorization of health professional(s)Yes Related documents:
Number and cadre of health-care professional authorizations required
As per the 2018 Draft Model of Care, a risk to the life or serious harm to the health of a person who is over 12 weeks pregnant must be certified by two clinicians, one of whom is an obstetrician. Where a condition exists which is likely to lead to the death of the fetus either before or within 28 days of birth, certification by two clinicians is required, one of whom must be an obstetrician. Both clinicians must be on the relevant specialist register. The Interim Clinical Guidance related to risk to life or health further states that An appropriate medical practitioner is one who is on the specialist register of the Medical Council of Ireland, who may be an Obstetrician, a Psychiatrist (who preferably has expertise in perinatal mental health), or a Physician with expertise in the medical or surgical disorder that is relevant to the risk to maternal health and life. It also recommends that Obstetric Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) discussions take place for individual cases, which would form an important component of the assessment of the risk to life or health. This guidance also provides details of the review process in case a physician does not certify to facilitate an abortion.
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.
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![]() Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNot 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. 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. Related documents: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.
Additional notesIf there is no contactable parent or guardian, a social worker may be authorised by the District Court to give consent. This also applies to children in foster care for less than five years. If the child is the subject of a voluntary care order, consent is required from the parents unless a Court order is given dispensing with such consent. In respect of children under interim or emergency care orders, an application should be made to the District Court. Again, every effort would be made to contact and seek consent from the parents. In relation to children under a full care order, it is best practice to seek consent from parents but the HSE is authorised to give consent under the Child Care Act to medical or psychiatric treatment. Related documents: |
![]() Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot Applicable 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
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![]() Police report required in case of rapeNot Applicable 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
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Parental consent required for minorsYes Can another adult consent in place of a parent?Yes If there is no contactable parent or guardian, a social worker may be authorised by the District Court to give consent. This also applies to children in foster care for less than five years. If the child is the subject of a voluntary care order, consent is required from the parents unless a Court order is given dispensing with such consent. In respect of children under interim or emergency care orders, an application should be made to the District Court. Again, every effort would be made to contact and seek consent from the parents. In relation to children under a full care order, it is best practice to seek consent from parents but the HSE is authorised to give consent under the Child Care Act to medical or psychiatric treatment. Age where consent not needed
If there is no contactable parent or guardian, a social worker may be authorised by the District Court to give consent. This also applies to children in foster care for less than five years. If the child is the subject of a voluntary care order, consent is required from the parents unless a Court order is given dispensing with such consent. In respect of children under interim or emergency care orders, an application should be made to the District Court. Again, every effort would be made to contact and seek consent from the parents. In relation to children under a full care order, it is best practice to seek consent from parents but the HSE is authorised to give consent under the Child Care Act to medical or psychiatric treatment. 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 notesIn cases of minors between 16 and 17 years who choose not to involve an adult, the doctor can offer an abortion only if they are confident that the minor understands the information provided and can give valid consent. In the case of minors of 15 years or under who choose not to involve an adult, a doctor can offer an abortion if there are exceptional circumstances and an assessment has been completed. Furthermore, the 2018 Draft Model of Care states that young people, aged under 18 years, are encouraged to involve their parents or another supportive adult.” |
![]() 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. Related documents: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 requiredNo 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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Compulsory counsellingNo 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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Compulsory waiting periodYes 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.
Additional notesUnder 12 weeks of pregnancy, the person is eligible to have the termination of pregnancy on the third day following certification. For terminations of pregnancy carried out under section 9 (risk to life or health), section 10 (risk to life or health in an emergency) or section 11 (condition likely to lead to death of fetus) of the legislation, the 3 day requirement does not apply Related documents: |
![]() 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. Related documents: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 testsNo 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.
Additional notesThe 2018 Draft Model of Care has a care pathway that states “Provide an STI risk assessment, as appropriate.” |
![]() 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.
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![]() Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot 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. 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.
|
No data
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.
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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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ireland |
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 aspirationYes
Dilatation and evacuationYes The Interim Clinical Guidance Riskt to Life or Health of a Pregnant Woman in relation to Termination of Pregnancy of 2019 states that it is unlikely that surgical termination of pregnancy after 12 weeks will be widely available nor that D&E after 14 weeks will be offered in Ireland in 2019, but this may change over time. Additionally, as per the Interim Clinical Guidance related to Fatal Fetal Anomalies, feticide refers to induced fetal demise performed as part of termination of pregnancy procedure. Feticide should only be performed in tertiary referral centres where there are fetal medicine specialists with the appropriate level of training. Feticide is most commonly performed before medical termination for FFA/LLC after 21 weeks and 6 days of gestation to ensure that there is no chance of a live birth.
Combination mifepristone-misoprostolYes (63 DAYS) As per the Interim Clinical Guidance related to Fatal Fetal Anomalies, feticide refers to induced fetal demise performed as part of termination of pregnancy procedure. Feticide should only be performed in tertiary referral centres where there are fetal medicine specialists with the appropriate level of training. Feticide is most commonly performed before medical termination for FFA/LLC after 21 weeks and 6 days of gestation to ensure that there is no chance of a live birth.
Misoprostol onlyNot specified As per the Interim Clinical Guidance related to Fatal Fetal Anomalies, feticide refers to induced fetal demise performed as part of termination of pregnancy procedure. Feticide should only be performed in tertiary referral centres where there are fetal medicine specialists with the appropriate level of training. Feticide is most commonly performed before medical termination for FFA/LLC after 21 weeks and 6 days of gestation to ensure that there is no chance of a live birth.
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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No data
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)No data found 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, for gynaecological indications Related documents:Misoprostol allowed to be sold or distributed by pharmacies or drug storesNo Administered by a trained physician in hospital only 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 providedRelated documents:
Primary health-care centresYes Medical abortions between 9 and 12 weeks and surgical abortions take place in a hospital. A Person can be referred to hospital under 9 weeks if the patient prefers it.
Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesYes Medical abortions between 9 and 12 weeks and surgical abortions take place in a hospital. A Person can be referred to hospital under 9 weeks if the patient prefers it.
Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified
Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified
NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified
Other (if applicable)Tertiary Centre 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.
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National guidelines for post-abortion careYes, 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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![]() Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresYes Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified
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. 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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Contraception included in post-abortion careYes 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 Termination of pregnancy is free for persons who normally live in the Republic of Ireland. The cost of contraception, pain relief or antibiotics will not be covered unless the person has a medical card. Patients with a medical card will be subject to prescription charges. Induced abortion for poor women onlyNo Termination of pregnancy is free for persons who normally live in the Republic of Ireland. The cost of contraception, pain relief or antibiotics will not be covered unless the person has a medical card. Patients with a medical card will be subject to prescription charges. 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.
Additional notesTermination of pregnancy is free for persons who normally live in the Republic of Ireland. The cost of contraception, pain relief or antibiotics will not be covered unless the person has a medical card. Patients with a medical card will be subject to prescription charges. |
Who can provide abortion servicesRelated documents:NurseNot specified
Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified
Doctor (specialty not specified)Yes Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNYes Other (if applicable)Medical practitioner, which means a medical practitioner who is for the time being registered in the register. As per the Interim Clinical Guidance Risk to Life or Health of a Pregnant Woman in relation to Termination of Pregnancy of 2019, all surgical terminations must be performed by or under the supervision of a trained and experienced operator.” 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/GYNNot specified
Minimum number of bedsNot specified
Other (if applicable)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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ireland |
Public sector providersRelated documents:
Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes
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 notesMedical practitioners, nurses and midwives have a duty to participate in a termination of pregnancy when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. Furthermore, the 2019 Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics provides more detail of what needs to be done when a provider has objects to providing an abortion. |
Private sector providersRelated documents:
Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes
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 notesMedical practitioners, nurses and midwives have a duty to participate in a termination of pregnancy when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. Furthermore, the 2019 Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics provides more detail of what needs to be done when a provider has objects to providing an abortion. |
Provider type not specifiedYes Related documents:
Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes
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 notesMedical practitioners, nurses and midwives have a duty to participate in a termination of pregnancy when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. Furthermore, the 2019 Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics provides more detail of what needs to be done when a provider has objects to providing an abortion. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedRelated documents:
Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes
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 notesMedical practitioners, nurses and midwives have a duty to participate in a termination of pregnancy when there is an immediate risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman, and it is immediately necessary to carry out the termination of pregnancy in order to avert that risk. Furthermore, the 2019 Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics provides more detail of what needs to be done when a provider has objects to providing an abortion. |
![]() 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.
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![]() 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.
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![]() 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.
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![]() 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.
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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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ireland |
![]() Penalties deconstructedLegal grounds specified; penalties for all other abortions |
PenaltiesHealth (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 23. (1) It shall be an offence for a person, by any means whatsoever, to intentionally end the life of a foetus otherwise than in accordance with the provisions of this Act. [...] (5) A person who is guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable on conviction on indictment to a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years, or both. (6) A prosecution for an offence under this section may be brought only by or with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions. (7) Nothing in subsection (4) shall operate to prevent or restrict access to services lawfully carried out in a place outside the State. 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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PenaltiesHealth (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 23. [...] (2) It shall be an offence for a person to prescribe, administer, supply or procure any drug, substance, instrument, apparatus or other thing knowing that it is intended to be used or employed with intent to end the life of a foetus, or being reckless as to whether it is intended to be so used or employed, otherwise than in accordance with the provisions of this Act. […] (4) It shall be an offence for a person to aid, abet, counsel or procure a pregnant woman to intentionally end, or attempt to end, the life of the foetus of that pregnant woman otherwise than in accordance with the provisions of this Act. (5) A person who is guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable on conviction on indictment to a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years, or both. (6) A prosecution for an offence under this section may be brought only by or with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions. (7) Nothing in subsection (4) shall operate to prevent or restrict access to services lawfully carried out in a place outside the State. Offence by body corporate 24. (1) Where an offence under this Act is committed by a body corporate and it is proved that the offence was committed with the consent or connivance, or was attributable to any wilful neglect, of a person who was a director, manager, secretary or other officer of the body corporate, or a person purporting to act in that capacity, that person shall, as well as the body corporate, be guilty of an offence and may be proceeded against and punished as if he or she were guilty of the first-mentioned offence. (2) Where the affairs of a body corporate are managed by its members, subsection (1) applies in relation to the acts and defaults of a member in connection with his or her functions of management as if he or she were a director or manager of the body corporate. […] 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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PenaltiesHealth (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 Offence by body corporate 24. (1) Where an offence under this Act is committed by a body corporate and it is proved that the offence was committed with the consent or connivance, or was attributable to any wilful neglect, of a person who was a director, manager, secretary or other officer of the body corporate, or a person purporting to act in that capacity, that person shall, as well as the body corporate, be guilty of an offence and may be proceeded against and punished as if he or she were guilty of the first-mentioned offence. (2) Where the affairs of a body corporate are managed by its members, subsection (1) applies in relation to the acts and defaults of a member in connection with his or her functions of management as if he or she were a director or manager of the body corporate. […] 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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