OLVG hospital starts performing late-term abortions
OLVG hospital in Amsterdam will soon begin a new medical procedure: performing abortions between the 22nd and 24th week of pregnancy. Although this procedure is legally permitted in the Netherlands, it remains a sensitive subject in society.
In the Netherlands, abortion is legal up to the 24th week of pregnancy if there is a medical necessity. Until now, hospitals have rarely performed these specific procedures in the final phase of the legal term. OLVG has decided to offer this care now to better assist women in this difficult situation.
The decision to offer this care was made carefully. The hospital emphasizes that there must always be a medical indication. This means, for example, that a serious abnormality has been detected in the fetus or that the mother's health is at risk. Doctors will assess each request individually and very thoroughly.
OLVG's move is eliciting various reactions within Dutch society. Proponents believe it is important that women have access to this medical care in their own country, while opponents raise ethical questions regarding the termination of a pregnancy at an advanced stage.
With this new procedure, the hospital aims to improve the quality of care for patients. OLVG hopes to provide a reliable place for women facing a very profound medical choice.