Hospital.Help

Berlin – Pregnant women should be better protected from hostility from abortion opponents in front of counseling centers. To this end, the Federal Council passed an amendment to the Pregnancy Conflict Act.

An abortion is only legal in Germany if the pregnant woman has sought advice at least three days before the procedure. An abortion may only be carried out by a doctor within twelve weeks of conception.

Harassment occurs again and again in front of counseling centers. According to the federal government, during protests by abortion opponents, the protesters often directly affect pregnant women.

Those affected are deliberately harassed and confronted with disturbing images and writings, putting them under considerable psychological pressure and sometimes making them permanently insecure. Employees of counseling centers would be prevented from carrying out their work.

With the change in the law, the federal states must ensure that pregnant women have unhindered access to advice centers and facilities that carry out corresponding interventions.

The law also prohibits intentionally making it difficult for pregnant women to enter a counseling center or a similar facility within an entrance area of ​​100 meters or forcing their own opinion on abortion against their will. Violations can in future be punished with a fine of up to 5,000 euros. © dpa/aerzteblatt.de