BACKGROUND TO PETITION TO EXPAND INFORMED CONSENT FOR ABORTION

A VERY PROGRESSIVE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH LAW WAS PUT INTO PLACE IN 1996 

Previously, abortion was allowed in SA under certain conditions which included rape and life-threatening conditions for mother and baby. The new dispensation was brought in on 1 February 1997 when the Termination of Pregnancy Act of 1996 (herein after referred as TOP) was passed and signed in. Abortion was now allowed on demand up to 12 weeks development of the baby. 

In the historic development of abortion legalisation in the world, for the first time, all scientific and medical information pertaining to the development of the baby in the womb was presented. There is no doubt that the life of every individual begins at fertilisation. Clearly abortion kills viable life.  

INFORMED CONSENT SHOULD BE EXTENDED 

Surely, women, thinking they need an abortion, should either verbally or in writing, receive a clear explanation of the abortion procedure, the risks and complications that might arise from the abortion procedure, to provide informed consent to the health care practitioner that will conduct the abortion.  

We are further of the view that the aforementioned informed consent should be extended to include psychological counselling, and the right to view an ultrasound of the baby, before the abortion procedure is conducted.

AMENDMENTS TO TOP ACT 

Unfortunately, this extended the period of abortion to 20 weeks in 2006, and under certain conditions even more late term abortions since 2018. 

LIFE AND DEATH 

The South African Constitution guarantees the Right to Life of every citizen, and this right should be applicable from fertilisation. The State Apparatus should be used in supporting the Right to Life of all South Africans. 

PLEASE CONSIDER AND SIGN THE PETITION  

Abundant Life seeks your support to amend the existing Abortion Law in South Africa.

We desire the following amendment:

• All abortion seeking women should obtain a detailed medical explanation pertaining to the abortion procedure and the risks and complications involved.
• Counselling by a social worker or psychologist should be provided to thoroughly explore all their options.
• They should view their ultrasound, before their procedure, to allow the mother to provide informed consent to the medical professional after the aforementioned detailed consultations.  

Thank you for your support in saving lives!