An amendment to UAE law has eased the process for medical professionals to perform abortions when a pregnant woman's life is at risk. This update grants significant autonomy to pregnant women concerning their health decisions. It specifies that only the pregnant woman's consent is required to proceed with an abortion, eliminating the need for consent from her husband or other male relatives.
In emergency cases requiring immediate surgical intervention, consent is waived, prioritizing swift medical action to preserve the pregnant woman's life. Abortions are permitted in two main scenarios: when the continuation of the pregnancy poses a threat to the pregnant woman's life or when there is evidence of severe fetal deformity, subject to certain conditions. However, both cases have multiple conditions that must be met according to the law.
A notable change in the amended law is the removal of the previous restriction on abortion availability based on gestational age in cases where the mother's life is endangered. Additionally, the cabinet is empowered to issue resolutions on other permissible abortion cases, reflecting the UAE's commitment to adaptability and inclusivity.
The medical liability law emphasizes the responsibilities of healthcare practitioners to uphold patient dignity, autonomy, and confidentiality. It requires doctors to use relevant technologies for proper diagnosis, ensure patient confidentiality, and obtain informed consent.
Abortions performed outside the specified criteria, even with parental consent, carry severe legal penalties, including imprisonment. Medical professionals have welcomed the amendment, recognizing its alignment with evolving healthcare standards and its role in simplifying the consent process for women in need of medical abortions.
Dr. Susmita Das, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist, noted that the amendment aligns with recent developments in UAE law. She emphasized that requiring only the pregnant woman's consent for a medical abortion makes the procedure less emotionally difficult. Additionally, with recent changes allowing single mothers to give birth in the country, the amendment becomes even more significant, as previously, a single mother requiring an abortion would have needed consent from her male relatives.