Termination for fetal anomaly: Are women in England given a choice of method?

Fisher, J; Ohr, PAL; Afarge, CL; Robson, SC

doi:10.3109/01443615.2014.940291

Termination for fetal anomaly: Are women in England given a choice of method?

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Steve Robson ORCiD

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Abstract

Choice of a medical or surgical method of termination for fetal anomaly (TFA) is advocated in national guidelines based on a similar risk profile. We investigated whether women are offered a choice of method, by surveying members of a UK parent support organisation. An online questionnaire was designed to examine respondents' experience of TFA. A total of 351 responses were included in the final analysis. TFAs after 24 weeks' gestation and selective reductions were excluded. Mean gestational age at TFA was 17 weeks; 14% (n = 50) were offered a choice of method, falling to 8% (n = 19) after 14 weeks' gestation. Overall, 78% (n = 275) underwent medical TFA with 88% stating they chose it because it was the only method offered; 60% (n = 30) of those offered a choice had a surgical TFA. Our survey suggests that women having TFA are not offered a choice of method. Service delivery should be improved to meet national guidance and women's needs.