Abortion Rates in UK Servicewomen

Abstract: The increasing presence of women in the UK armed forces highlights the need for focused attention on their reproductive healthcare needs. Despite representing a growing percentage of the military, servicewomen often face unique challenges due to their minority status and frequent relocations. This letter examines the prevalence of unintended pregnancies and abortions among UK armed forces women, comparing them to their US counterparts. It underscores the disparities in abortion care access and provision between the two countries and emphasises the importance of addressing servicewomen's reproductive health as an integral part of comprehensive military healthcare. Further research and data collection are crucial for ensuring equitable access to safe and legal abortion services for UK servicewomen.

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