Abstract

The following case history relates to a 19-year-old girl who was referred to a consultant gynaecologist for the termination of pregnancy. The medical and social reasons for the termination and the gynaecologist's decision to sterilize the girl are set out. Three questions arise: 1) Were the medical decisions taken in this correct? 2) What are the implications for current policies regarding contraceptive advice, abortion, and sterilization? 3) What are the general practitioner's current responsibilities to this patient?