Belarusian gynecologists received a new guideline on how to talk to pregnant women considering abortion

Nashaniva received a script that was sent to gynecologists in various healthcare institutions in Belarus.

It is highlighted in bold: when talking to a woman, the doctor must use the words «pregnancy», «child», «mother», «life», «motherhood» and avoid the word «abortion».

The most common reasons for abortions are listed, as well as options for disputing them.

For example, if a woman admits to having a bad relationship with her partner, the gynecologist is suggested to say that a child can improve the relationship in the couple, or that everyone experiences crises, and after the current one ends, the woman will be happy that she kept the child.

If a pregnant woman complains about a lack of family support (e.g., from her parents), the doctor is advised to emphasize that the woman has the right to independently decide to keep the pregnancy. He can also add: «The appearance of a little one in the house most often reconciles all relatives. An infant unites and heals relationships.»

In both situations, gynecologists are advised to offer their help in delivering the news to the woman's loved ones (if she herself is afraid of such a conversation).

To the argument that at this moment the woman's priority is education or career, it is suggested to respond with phrases like «Motherhood is the most beautiful and valuable female realization» and «You can do everything in parallel: look at how many strong and successful women who gave birth early, and it did not hinder their careers.»

It is allowed to emphasize that a career can be built at any age, but it is better to have a child in youth.

If a pregnant woman says she already has children and does not want to have more, the doctor can try to convince her with the phrase: «Children from large families are more adapted to life. Their social skills are also much better developed.»

In case a very young girl comes for an appointment, who is afraid that she is not ready for motherhood, the gynecologist is advised to emphasize that youth is the best period to give birth.

And it can even be promised that motherhood will elevate the girl to a different level of personal development compared to her childless peers.

If the pregnant woman has any illnesses and she is worried that the child might also be born sick, the doctor should tell her about the best specialists with whom she can consult.

The option of what the doctor should say is also considered if the pregnant woman complains about a poor financial situation: «Family well-being is, of course, important. Very often, with the birth of the next child, new earning opportunities open up for the family» and «Every mother wants her child to grow up in abundance. But the most valuable thing we can give a child is love and protection.»

It is highlighted that in the case of any motive for abortion, one should say:

«Every termination of pregnancy is harmful to health and carries the risk of developing complications. Abortion is a common cause of infertility and inability to carry a pregnancy to term in the future.»

Further, it should be added that reproductive potential decreases with age and that even IVF does not always help women of older reproductive age.

Unacceptable phrases for medical professionals are also listed.

For example, it is forbidden to condemn: «At your age, it's time to raise grandchildren, not have children».

It is also forbidden to scare with phrases from the series «Your husband will leave you if you have an abortion now».

If, after the consultation, the woman decides to keep the pregnancy, the gynecologist must praise her for the correct decision.

If she continues to insist on an abortion, the doctor is instructed to send the patient for a conversation with a psychologist.

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