Termination for fetal anomaly in the UK – Women's views on termination method in the second trimester

Abstract

The majority of individuals in the UK opting to terminate a pregnancy complicated by fetal anomaly have a medical rather than a surgical termination. This study provides context, understanding and evidence of the value that they attach to having the option to choose a termination method following a diagnosis of fetal anomaly. Ten women attending a fetal medicine unit participated in qualitative interviews by telephone and in person, explaining decision-making processes for their choice of method, their views on having this choice, and their perception of the value and acceptability of this choice. Important factors included the opportunity to confirm the fetal anomaly, hospitalisation, waiting time, and duration of the process. The emotional effort of carrying the pregnancy was foremost for many women, as was the need for self-preservation from birth trauma. Choice of termination method was felt to be a right for an individual facing a fetal anomaly.