Story: Having a termination for medical reasons

In this story, a client shares their experience having an abortion after receiving a foetal anomaly diagnosis at their 12-week scan.

I was absolutely over the moon when I found out I was pregnant. It came to my 12-week scan, and we found out our baby had a chromosomal abnormality and a massive heart defect.

My partner and I had to make the devastating decision to terminate for medical reasons after having our baby’s life drawn out to us.

I was referred to MSI for my surgical termination as I was 15 weeks pregnant at this point.

“They let me say goodbye to my baby girl.”

I can honestly say I was treated with the upmost dignity and respect, and I felt so seen and heard by every single member of staff. They were reassuring and kind. They let me say goodbye to my baby girl. 

“You are not alone.”

I am so thankful for the care I received with MSI and their treatment of me and my fiancé while we were in the clinic.

To anyone having to make this decision, I am sorry, and you are not alone.

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How to get in touch

We are here for you. If you, or someone you know, is affected by this topic, you can contact us on 0345 300 8090 to discuss your options.

Our teams will support you (and your partner) at every step of the treatment. Counselling is also available before, during, and after treatment.  

To find out more about foetal anomaly care at MSI UK, visit this page.

There are several other resources that may be useful to you:

• The charity Tommy’s also offers information and support for those affected by baby loss.

• The charity Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) offers information and support for people who have received a diagnosis after antenatal screening.

• The charity Stillbirth and neonatal death charity (Sands) has an online community, with a support chat and support line as well as online and in person support groups for those affected by baby loss.