New Decree Empowers Midwives to Perform Instrumental Abortions Under Simplified Conditions

Overview of the Decree

Specially trained midwives are now authorized to perform instrumental abortions in health facilities under the same safety conditions as doctors. This change comes with a new decree published on Wednesday, aimed at improving access to abortion services across France.

Initial Restrictions and Revisions

The initial version of the decree, released in mid-December, faced criticism from midwifery organizations for its restrictive conditions, which required the presence of multiple specialists and equipment suited only for large maternity wards. This was seen as counterproductive, particularly in addressing medical deserts.

Simplified Procedures and Training

The revised decree eliminates the stringent conditions, setting simpler organizational requirements and defining new training conditions for midwives. The Ministry of Health's press release highlights that the care terms and complication procedures will now be consistent, regardless of the professional performing the abortion.

Impact on Abortion Access

Frédéric Valletoux, speaking on France Inter, emphasized that the new measure would facilitate easier access to abortion, noting that instrumental abortions account for about 20% of all abortions in France. The operation, which involves the aspiration of the egg, can last between 10 to 20 minutes and is performed under anesthesia.

Constitutional and Professional Recognition

Following the constitutional inclusion of the right to abortion in March, this decree is seen as a significant advancement in women's rights. Isabelle Derrendinger and Delphine Giraud, leading figures in midwifery, praised the decree for respecting professional expertise and addressing previous barriers faced by smaller establishments.

Remaining Challenges

Despite the advancements, there is disappointment that the decree does not address the issue of increased remuneration for midwives, an aspect that remains unmandated for hospitals despite recent increases in IVG prices.

Conclusion

The publication of this decree marks a significant step towards equalizing the working conditions for midwives and doctors in performing instrumental abortions, greatly anticipated by healthcare professionals and rights associations.