Abstract

Induced abortion should be freely available as part of the strategy to prevent unwanted pregnancy and particularly to reduce teenage maternities. The service is an important public health measure and should be easily accessible to all women, especially those who live in socially deprived communities. In the short-term abortion rates may rise and this should be seen as a positive outcome of the strategy to reduce unwanted maternities. In the medium-term the need should reduce, as there is increased use of routine and emergency contraception. Providers of NHS abortion services have an important role to play in the implementation of the Teenage Pregnancy and National Sexual Health Strategy.