What is required if an abortion is sought after 20 weeks?

When an abortion is sought after 20 weeks of gestation in New Zealand, a second health practitioner must be consulted to assess the situation. This requirement is in place to ensure that there is a thorough evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the request for the procedure. The rationale behind this stipulation involves safeguarding the health and well-being of both the individual seeking the abortion and the fetus, facilitating thoughtful consideration of the reasons for seeking the procedure at this later stage of pregnancy. This process allows for a comprehensive approach to decision-making, considering both medical and personal factors that may contribute to the request.

Other options, such as submitting an application for appeal or requiring approval from a hospital board, do not align with the established legislative framework. While counseling is important, it is not specifically mandated in the context of obtaining permission for an abortion after 20 weeks in the same manner as consulting a second health practitioner. Therefore, the requirement for a second practitioner is the fundamental procedural step in these circumstances.