1. 1 How much medical supervision do women need to use medical abortion safely and effectively in early pregnancy? Ann Furedi British Pregnancy Advisory Service (bpas) www.bpas.org

2. 2 Not much! What do we mean by supervision?

3. 3 Presumptions Women are generally not stupid They are generally motivated to use it ‘properly’ They are generally able to cope with what happens

4. 4 Preconditions for safe use Integrity of medication Clear accurate information about when/how to use it and what’s normal and what’s not Advice on managing risks eg. ectopic, continuing pregnancy Able to assess gestation Able to work out if the abortion is complete and have a fall-back plan

5. 5 In real life - Social expectations of ‘medicalised’ service –bpas – counselling/blood work/ultrasound/24-7 support line Political requirements –Maintain barriers to access – to ‘deter’ –Prevent ‘normalisation’ Economic requirements

6. 6 The future

7. 7 Thank you