FALSE FACTS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

Fears fake info leads women to access unsafe services

- RUTH SUTER

MEDICS fear women are being driven to access dodgy abortion services online after harassment by protesters at Scots clinics. 

Doctors, nurses and other sexual health care providers say the presence of religious groups, such as 40 Days for Life, outside hospitals is “chilling”.

The group has been accused of targeting women at their most vulnerable and clinicians claim their scaremongering is so severe they even go as far as peddling leaflets telling women abortions can lead to cancer.

Medics shared their views yesterday at Holyrood in an evidence session on “buffer zones” legislation for clinics where abortions are carried out.

It is hoped the law, which was passed in Northern Ireland in 2022, would prevent protests within 200 metres of any clinic in Scotland.

MSPs heard from abortion services providers including the Royal College of Nursing, the Royal College of General Practitioners, NHS Lothian and Circle Health. Speaking to the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, Chris Provan, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners Scotland said: “We need to improve access. The British Society of Abortion Providers pointed out some women may be tempted to go on the internet to try to obtain drugs or go to non-regulated services.