Women Arrested for Suspected Illegal Abortions Amid Legislative Changes in England

In England, women continue to face arrests and police investigations over suspected illegal abortions, even as parliament has expressed overwhelming support for decriminalizing abortion. Between June 2025 and January 2026, Nottinghamshire and Metropolitan police confirmed arrests of women suspected of illegal pregnancy terminations. Abortion providers have indicated that there are additional cases not reflected in official data, as some police forces either did not respond to requests or reported no arrests under the relevant legislation. Although Members of Parliament voted in June 2025 to amend the law, allowing women to avoid prosecution for obtaining terminations outside the legal framework, the legislation is still pending final approval.

The Guardian

Several troubling cases illustrate the consequences of current practices. In one instance, a woman who miscarried at approximately 17 weeks was arrested in a hospital after police discovered tablets in her vagina. Despite her denial of seeking an abortion, police confiscated her electronic devices, which she used to manage her diabetes. A clinician involved in her care expressed shock at the police's actions, stating, “What happened was horrifying.” Another case involved a woman in her 40s who delivered a foetus at around 24 weeks, leading to her arrest during the Christmas period. Professionals noted significant safeguarding concerns, particularly regarding her children, who witnessed the police intervention.

The Guardian

Critics, including Labour backbencher Tonia Antoniazzi, argue that the treatment of women under existing abortion laws is outdated and harmful. Antoniazzi stated, “The dystopian treatment of women continues under this Victorian-era law,” emphasizing that criminalization is unnecessary for upholding abortion law. Harriet Wistrich, chief executive of the Centre for Women’s Justice, pointed out that women are often targeted without appropriate sensitivity, particularly after experiencing trauma related to pregnancy loss.

The Guardian

The House of Lords is set to debate amendments to abortion law, with proposals including the removal of the decriminalization clause and pardoning women previously convicted. Louise McCudden, head of external affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices UK, highlighted the opportunity for the House of Lords to end the threat of prosecution and address ongoing investigations. A spokesperson for the National Police Chiefs’ Council clarified that investigations into unexpected pregnancy loss are not routine and are initiated only when credible information suggests criminal activity.

The Guardian

While police maintain that investigations are conducted with sensitivity, critics argue that the current framework disproportionately targets vulnerable women. The ongoing discussions in parliament reflect a critical moment for reproductive rights in England, as advocates push for reforms that prioritize women's safety and autonomy in reproductive healthcare.

The Guardian

• “Antoniazzi said: “The dystopian treatment of women continues under this Victorian-era law despite the House of Commons being clear that this has no place in modern society.” — Tonia Antoniazzi, Labour Backbencher

The Guardian

• “When I called the police, I really thought they would offer her support and protection. What happened was horrifying.” — Clinician involved in care

The Guardian

• “We know from providing reproductive healthcare across six continents that criminalisation harms women and makes abortion less safe,” — Louise McCudden, MSI Reproductive Choices UK

The Guardian

• “Each case would have a set of unique factors to be assessed and investigated depending on its individual circumstances.” — National Police Chiefs’ Council Spokesperson

The Guardian