Schisis en zwangerschapsafbreking: een ethische exploratie

Abstract

Pregnancy termination in case of an orofacial cleft: investigation of the concept of reproductive autonomy Gynaecologists and cleft surgeons are sometimes confronted with the demand for pregnancy termination after ultrasound detection of an isolated cleft lip/palate. In this article, ethical approaches to this issue are described. Furthermore, it is discussed how recognising each person’s right to reproductive autonomy also entails that clinicians provide prospective parents with up-to-date and relevant clinical information. Finally, some recommendations are made respecting the right of autonomy of the pregnant woman and, at the same time, acknowledging that terminating the pregnancy due to a cleft lip may, in most cases, not be the best option.