HSE publishes report on first six years of Termination of Pregnancy Services in Ireland

The HSE has today, Friday 3 July 2026 published the first Termination of Pregnancy Services in Ireland Report (2019-2025) covering the first six years of abortion services in Ireland.

The report shows how termination of Pregnancy services has developed into an essential component of our healthcare system. One in four pregnancies worldwide ends in a termination, making it one of the most common medical procedures experienced by women of reproductive age. Safe, high-quality termination of pregnancy care is therefore a key element of the healthcare services the HSE provides.

Key achievements since the beginning of the provision of services in 2019

• An increase in maternity units providing medical termination services from 10 maternity units in 2019, to all 19 maternity units in 2025.
• An increase in contract holders in primary care providing early medical abortion from 310 contract holders in 2019 to 480 contract holders in 2025.
• The launch of the national data collection system in collaboration with colleagues in National Perinatal Epidemiological Centre (NPEC).
• The establishment of the monthly peer-to-peer meetings where service providers can meet, share experiences and discuss clinical challenges.
• The development of a Guideline for the ‘Investigation and Management of Complications of early termination of pregnancy, as well as the commissioning for the development of further national clinical guidelines for termination of pregnancy.

In addition, the HSE, in collaboration with the Pregnancy Loss Research Group based in University College Cork, is launching a national information booklet to explain the legal and clinical realities of Termination of Pregnancy (TOP) in Ireland. Developed as a plain-language guide, it sets out what the law provides for and how services are organised and delivered in real-world care settings. This resource reflects the legislation at the time of publication.

Clinical Lead for Termination of Pregnancy Services in the HSE National Women and Infants Health Programme, Dr Aoife Mullally, said: “one in four pregnancies worldwide ends in a termination, making it one of the most common medical procedures experienced by women of reproductive age. Safe, high-quality termination of pregnancy care is therefore an essential element of the healthcare services the HSE provides. In a global climate where reproductive rights are increasingly under pressure, safeguarding and sustaining these important services must remain a priority to ensure that people can continue to access the care that they need and are legally entitled to.”

Speaking on the report, Dr Cliona Murphy Clinical Director of the National Women and Infants Health Programme, added: “As we look ahead, our focus turns to planning the next phase of termination of pregnancy services. The service will continue to evolve in response to changes within the health system and the needs of the population, with a sustained emphasis on evidence-based, equitable and woman-centred care.”

Professor Keelin O’Donoghue, Consultant Obstetrician; Lead, Pregnancy Loss Research Group, UCC said: “The new booklet brings together clinical and legal expertise which will help ensure that people considering or needing a termination of pregnancy have accurate and reliable information on the legalities, informed consent, and related processes. This is not a clinical guide to termination of pregnancy. Rather, our aim is to help people understand the legal framework and feel supported in making informed decisions. Good information enables equitable care, and we hope this resource will provide both knowledge and guidance.”