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‘No foetal pain before 24 weeks’
Posted by Xeno on June 25, 2010
There is no new evidence to show foetuses feel pain in the womb before 24 weeks, and so no reason to challenge the abortion limit, UK doctors say.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ review said foetuses are “undeveloped and sedated”.
Brain connections are not fully formed, and the environment of the womb creates a state of induced sleep, like unconsciousness, they add.
Anti-abortion campaigners are likely to challenge the reports.
The issue of whether a foetus of 24 weeks or below can feel pain had been raised in the debate over whether the current time limit for abortion should be reduced.
An up-to-date analysis of evidence was recommended by MPs in a report from the Commons Science and Technology committee during the last parliament. …
