Q&A

What are the medical leaders calling for?

Women currently have to take both abortion pills in a clinic or hospital, but the second one often causes them to suffer bleeding and cramps on their way home. Medical groups say women should be allowed to take their second abortion pill at home.

Why is it controversial?

Charities say the rule change would trivialise abortions and make them more common. They also claim women would be put at risk from complications.

What are the risks?

The pills cause bleeding and severe cramps and can lead to nausea and a fever. One in 500 women will get an infection, which can be serious.

What happens now?

The Department of Health is monitoring the situation in Scotland and Wales, where laws have been relaxed. But there is huge support among doctors for liberalisation. If the policy in Scotland and Wales is deemed a success, England could follow. The outcome of a judicial review to overturn the policy in Scotland could prove crucial.