Wales to make at-home abortions permanent

 (Photo: Unsplash)

Temporary measures to allow 'DIY' at-home abortions are to be made permament in Wales. 

Welsh Health Minister Eluned Morgan has called the move "progressive".

The rules were relaxed at the start of Covid to allow women to take abortion pills at home. The pills were sent in the post by abortion providers after a telephone or e-consultation. 

The measures were supposed to be temporary but there were calls by pro-abortion advocates to keep them in place after the end of the pandemic. 

The Welsh government is making the changes permament despite concerns about health risks to women and the possibility of coercion by abusive partners. 

Ms Morgan claimed the measures were safe. 

"This is a progressive step which demonstrates the Welsh government's commitment to supporting women," she said.

The Welsh government's decision follows a public consultation on the issue last year. 

Ms Morgan said she had "carefully" considered responses to the consultation. 

"I am satisfied that the arrangements are safe and bring significant benefits to women and girls who wish to access abortion services, with reduced waiting times enabling them to access the help they need more quickly than would have been possible under the previous arrangements," she said. 

"The benefits to the NHS are also significant, with a reduced number of appointments being required."

The decision by the Welsh government comes in the same week as England decided to end the temporary measures at the end of August. 

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.