Health Ministry Announces Guidelines for Permissible Abortions and Procedures

The Ministry of Health and Prevention in the UAE has recently announced the defined cases of permissible abortion and their controls and procedures. This move aims to preserve the pregnant woman’s life, ensure her safety, and enhance oversight of healthcare facilities operating in the country.

According to the new regulations, a dedicated committee will be formed within each health authority to thoroughly examine abortion requests. This committee will consist of three doctors, including an obstetrics and gynecology specialist, a psychiatry specialist, and a representative of the Public Prosecution. The committee may also consult a third party with the appropriate specialty and expertise when needed.

The Ministry has specified that abortion procedures are permissible under certain conditions. These include situations where continuing the pregnancy endangers the pregnant woman’s life with no alternative to save her, or if the fetus has severe deformities that will affect the newborn’s health and life. A medical report issued by a specialized medical committee is required to support these cases, and the gestational period at the time of the procedure should not exceed 120 days.

Furthermore, the regulations state that abortion procedures must be carried out in a licensed healthcare facility by a specialist obstetrician-gynecologist. The procedure should be free of any medical complications that may endanger the pregnant woman’s life.

Healthcare facilities in the UAE are now obligated to develop a policy outlining the responsibilities and obligations of the medical staff involved in the abortion procedure. This policy should also detail the rights and responsibilities of the pregnant woman undergoing the procedure, as well as the necessary healthcare requirements before and after the abortion. Additionally, healthcare facilities must maintain the privacy and confidentiality of the personal data of pregnant women undergoing abortions.

The Ministry’s announcement has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the move as a step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of pregnant women, while others express concerns about the ethical implications of abortion. The Ministry has emphasized the importance of following the regulations and procedures to protect the health and rights of pregnant women in the UAE.

Overall, the new regulations on permissible abortion cases in the UAE aim to provide a clear framework for healthcare facilities and medical professionals to follow when considering abortion requests. By defining the cases in which abortion is permissible and outlining the necessary controls and procedures, the Ministry of Health and Prevention seeks to safeguard the health and well-being of pregnant women in the country.