Abortion in Luxembourg
Abortion in Luxembourg was liberalized on 15 November 1978.[1] Within the first twelve weeks of pregnancy, a woman who determines herself to be "in distress" can obtain an abortion after two consultations with a doctor, one medical and one psycho-social, and a waiting period of three to seven days. After the first twelve weeks, an abortion can only be obtained when two doctors certify there is a danger to the mother and fetus. Underage patients must be accompanied by a trusted adult to the meetings and the procedure itself. Abortions may be performed in hospitals, clinics and a doctor's surgery.[2]
Before reforms passed in 2012, only a doctor could determine if a woman was "in distress". Abortions in the first twelve weeks were only permitted in the event of a physical or mental health threat to the mother, a serious risk that the child will be born with a serious disease or serious defects, or a pregnancy resulting from rape. Underage patients needed to obtain parental consent for an abortion, and abortions could only be performed in hospitals and clinics.[1][2][3]
Due to religious reasons, many doctors in Luxembourg generally do not perform abortions.[1] Doctors who choose not to conduct an abortion, or are incapable of doing so, are required to refer the patient to another medical practitioner under the 2012 law.[2]
References
- 1 2 3 Abortion Policies: A Global Review (DOC). 2. United Nations Population Division. 2002. Retrieved 2 January 2013.
- 1 2 3 "Restrictions on abortion in Luxembourg to be relaxed". Luxemburger Wort. Luxembourg. 23 November 2012. Retrieved 2 January 2013.
- ↑ "Luxembourg, Penal Code. Chapitre Ier. - De l'avortement. (L. 15 novembre 1978)" (in French). 15 November 1978. Retrieved 2 January 2013.