SAFE ABORTION DAY: GRPA CALLS FOR AN END TO ABORTION STIGMA IN GUYANA, ANNOUNCES PUSH FOR CONSTITUTIONAL PROTECTION

On International Safe Abortion Day, the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) is calling for an end to stigma, discrimination and misinformation surrounding abortion, particularly across social media in Guyana.

Abortion has been legally available in Guyana for more than three decades under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. Importantly, Guyana’s law allows abortion on request during the first eight weeks of pregnancy. A woman does not have to prove rape, incest, a threat to her health or another specific circumstance to exercise that choice during this period.

Women also do not require the permission of a husband or partner to access abortion care. Pregnant girls do not require parental or guardian consent. While healthcare providers may encourage communication with a parent, guardian or partner, the law does not require their consent or notification.