Healthcare for Both Lives

Effective, safe, and acceptable. These are the three words with which Aiken et al conclude their assessment of telemedical abortion - also known as ‘Pills by Post’ - published in 2021 in BJOG. In an accompanying editorial, Prof Lesley Regan, a past president of the RCOG (2016-19) expressed the same opinion, using the same three words – safe, effective and acceptable. The same study was quoted – five years later - by Baroness Blackstone in the House of Lords, as part of the recent debate over...

Please note: This article discusses neonatal death, and perinatal palliative care, including the experiences of parents whose babies died shortly after birth. Some readers may find the content emotionally difficult. “They treated her as if she was the most important person in the world. . . .” (Quote from a mother whose baby died in neonatal care). The Healthcare for Both Lives declaration affirms the ethical and professional responsibility to care for and treat both lives in pregnancy...

Wednesday (18 March) night’s debate in the House of Lords held significant weight for healthcare professionals who are committed to healthcare that protects and values both the pregnant woman and her pre-born child. Peers voted against two significant amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill. Baroness Monckton’s amendment, which sought to remove the proposed decriminalisation of abortion up to birth, was defeated despite substantial support (185–148). Baroness Stroud’s amendment, which...