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===Laws & Social Stigmas=== | ===Laws & Social Stigmas=== | ||
In Italy, abortion is fully legal for the first 90 days of gestation, according to Law No. 194 (passed in 1978). During this period, all reasons for an abortion are permitted, including to save the life of the woman, to preserve physical health, to preserve mental health, rape or incest, risk of fetal impairment and economic or social reasons. While it is not formally available "upon request," the law is so open-ended that any woman can find a legal reason for an abortion that fit into the permitted criteria. | |||
There are certain steps that must be taken in order to obtain an abortion. First, a woman must usually first apply to an authorized health or welfare agency or a physician of her choice. If she goes to an agency, she will be receive a consultation, during which time she may be encouraged to not seek out termination. If she goes to a physician, the physician must inform of her right sand the availability of welfare facilities. Following the consultation, if the woman wishes to terminate her pregnancy, the physician must issue a certificate. This certificate confirms the pregnancy and the requested abortion, and it must be signed by the woman and physician. If the pregnant woman is under 18, parental authorization is required (unless there are serious health risks -- in which case, parental preferences may be overruled). Following the issuing of the certificate, the woman must usually then undergo a one-week reflection period. This reflection period is legally required unless an urgent abortion is necessary. Once the reflection period is complete, the woman may go to an authorized medical facility and request an abortion. Note that abortions must be performed in public hospitals or authorized private facilities. There are no specialized abortion clinics in Italy. | |||
After the first three months of gestation, abortion is only permitted to preserve the physical/mental health of the mother or if the fetus has a genetic deficiency. If abortions are performed that are outside the legal provisions, penalties may be levied. | |||
It's important to know that, in Italy, medical care providers are not required to perform abortions. If medical personnel are opposed to abortion on moral or religious groups, they are legally allowed to declare their conscientious objection and be exempted from performing or assisting in an abortion procedure. | |||
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== | ===What to Get & Where to Get It=== | ||
===Costs=== | ===Costs=== | ||
If you have an Italian health card, abortion is free. If you're a foreigner, you will need to pay for the procedure. | |||
==Advocacy & Counseling== | ==Advocacy & Counseling== | ||