How to interpret a law
Vetere, C.
Professioni Infermieristiche 31(3): 141-148
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-0205 PMID: 107526 Document Number: 134352
This article reproduces verbatim the text of law 194, promulga ted in Italy on May 22, 1978. After stating that abortion is not to be considered a contraceptive method, and that, on the other hand, responsible procreation is to be encouraged, and information and services of contraception obtained in maternal-infant health centers, the law states the modalities for voluntary interruption of pregnancy. Abortion is legal within the first 3 months of pregnancy when requested directly by the woman, and when a doctor testifies, in writing, that the pregnancy could be dangerous to the woman's physical or mental health, or that it would be totally unadvisable for social or economic conditions, or that there is danger of congenital anomalies for the infant. If the doctor does not consider the abortion to be urgent the woman is strongly encouraged to ponder the matter for an extra week. Doctors and sanitary personnel may conscientiously object to performing the abortion, unless the life of the woman is in danger. Minors need the written consent of parents, unless a judge decides otherwise. In the case of mentally retarded women authorization for abortion can be asked by the husband or the tutor. Anybody causing interruption of pregnancy without the woman's consent will be punished with fines and/or imprisonment.