Opinion divided over increased abortion rates
19 June 2007
Abortion rates have reached an all-time high.
The 2006 statistics for England and Wales revealed a figure of almost 200 000, a 3.9% increase in abortions from last year.
The rate was highest for women aged 19.
The Family Planning Association said the rise in figures was due lack of contraceptive services.
Chief Executive Anne Weyman, Chief Executive of fpa said: “The fact that there has been such a percentage rise in the numbers of women having an abortion since 2005 isn’t surprising given that contraceptive services are in crisis and at their lowest point for many years.
“Services are being cut and clinics are closing up and down the country.
“In England, the average amount spent on each woman’s contraception is about eleven pounds.”
Pro-life organization SPUC said the trend towards relaxed abortion laws was responsible for the increase.
Paul Tully, General Secretary of SPUC said: "Moves to promote the fast-tracking of abortion are making women ever more vulnerable to the misinformation and pressure which often accompanies abortion decisions.
“Department of Health targets to rush through abortions make doctors reluctant to refer women for counselling.
Dr Himansu Basu, Chair of the International Fellowship of Rotarian Physicians, said that abortion is not a decision that women take lightly.
However he said more relaxed legislation could make it an easier option and may be responsible for an increase in abortions.