London - Marie Stopes International today issued the following update on the case of an 11-year-old Romanian girl who is 22 weeks pregnant as a result of rape and has been brought to the UK in order to access an abortion:
“Representatives of the 11-year-old Romanian girl who is 22 weeks pregnant as a result of rape contacted Marie Stopes International on arrival in the UK to provide the service.
“Unfortunately, a number of logistical problems arose which would have delayed the girl having an abortion at one of Marie Stopes International’s own centres.
“With the girl’s wellbeing a paramount concern, and immediate access to the service a priority, Marie Stopes International was able to make alternative arrangements for her. She will now be treated in a public hospital under a private arrangement funded by Marie Stopes International.
“Despite the difficulties encountered by this young and vulnerable girl, Marie Stopes International has nevertheless been encouraged by the Romanian government’s recent statements that they recognise this reality and are preparing new legislation to extend the Romanian limit on abortion upwards from its existing 14-week maximum in certain circumstances.
“Had the Romanian girl in this case been able to obtain an abortion when she first sought help in her country – at 17 weeks gestation – she would have been spared a further month of pregnancy, traumatic uncertainty and the need to travel abroad for her treatment.
For further information:
Tony Kerridge: tony.kerridge@mariestopes.org.uk tel: 020 7034 2365 / 07748948037
Anna Mawer: anna.mawer@mariestopes.org.uk tel: 020 7034 2307