UK abortion law

Abortion is legal in the UK up to the 24th week of pregnancy. However, if there is a substantial risk to the woman's life or if there are foetal abnormalities there is no time limit.

To comply with the 1967 Abortion Act, two doctors must give their consent, stating that to continue with the pregnancy would present a risk to the physical or mental health of the woman or her existing children.

However, the 1967 Act does not extend to Northern Ireland, where abortion is still illegal.

For information on the campaign to change the current laws, visit our campaigning section.