Ymhellach i adroddiadau am gymhlethdodau sy'n arwain at ganlyniadau andwyol i iechyd rhai menywod, pa ystyriaeth y mae Llywodraeth Cymru wedi ei rhoi i wrthdroi'r newidiadau dros dro a wnaeth i ddeddfwriaeth erthylu yn gynharach eleni?
I am aware of the cases in England. Whilst each is tragic, they represent a tiny percentage of the home abortions that have taken place since the regulations were changed. There have been no such incidents in Wales although we accept there is a risk this could happen. To mitigate that risk, we have ensured the guidance provided to clinicians undertaking early medical abortions at home clearly states they must arrange for the woman to attend a clinic if there is any concern about the accuracy of the gestation stage.
Termination of pregnancy remains an essential service. I have listened to women’s groups and clinicians and introduced the temporary measures that enable women in Wales to have access to termination of pregnancy services at home.
Public safety is our number one priority as we tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. The protocol used to deliver early medical abortion services via teleconference was developed by clinicians and supported by guidelines issued by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). I am confident that all clinical and safeguarding risks are being considered and managed appropriately including the assessment of gestation.