Termination

If tests show that your baby has a serious abnormality you may consider whether or not to end your pregnancy. It is important to find out as much information as you can from the doctor about the particular condition and how it may affect your baby, so that you can make a decision that is right for you and your family.

You will probably be very shocked when you are first told the diagnosis by the consultant and may not be able to take very much in. You may need to go back and talk again, preferably accompanied by your partner or someone close to you. You will also need to spend time talking things through with your partner or with others close to you.

An early termination, before 12 to 14 weeks, will usually be done under a general anaesthetic. For a later termination you will probably go through labour as this is usually the safest way for you. You may wish to think beforehand about whether you want to see and perhaps even hold your baby and give your baby a name. It can make the baby more real for you and your family and help you to grieve. If you don’t wish to see your baby, it’s still a good idea to ask hospital staff to take a photograph for you. You may find this comforting at a later date.

You may find your feelings quite hard to cope with after a termination, whether it has been in early or late pregnancy. It will help to talk about them. If you would like to talk to people who have undergone a similar experience you can contact ARC(Antenatal Results and Choices).

Information provided by Health Promotion England.