Twelve Babies Born Alive After Abortions in Ireland in 2022

In a recent parliamentary response, the Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed that twelve babies were born alive following pregnancy terminations in 2022. This information was released in response to a query from Independent Ireland TD, Ken O’Flynn, and published by the National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre based in Cork. Unfortunately, all twelve infants died shortly after birth.

The breakdown of gestational ages at birth reveals that one baby was born under 22 weeks, nine were born between 22 and 27 weeks, and two were born at 28 to 31 weeks. In its response, the HSE noted that it does not maintain specific national audit data regarding the care of babies born alive following terminations.

Guidelines for Care and Reporting Practices

According to HSE guidelines, all infants delivered with a diagnosis of a life-limiting condition, including those born after a termination, receive comfort care. The HSE emphasized that it is rare for a baby to be born alive following a termination of pregnancy. The HSE stated that the likelihood of an ongoing pregnancy after administering both mifepristone and misoprostol is less than 3%.

In cases where survival occurs, care is provided based on best clinical practices tailored to the infant’s needs. Medical abortions in Ireland involve two medications and are available to women up to 12 weeks pregnant. For those over nine weeks pregnant, the procedure takes place in a hospital setting. Terminations can also be performed in exceptional circumstances after 12 weeks if there are serious risks to the mother’s health or if the fetus has an abnormality likely to result in death before or shortly after birth.

Calls for Transparency and Clarity

Deputy O’Flynn expressed concern over the lack of transparency surrounding the treatment of babies born alive after terminations. He stated, “It is hard to fathom that babies are being born alive after abortions in Ireland and sadly you have to go round in circles just to get answers as to how the babies are treated once they come into this world.” He urged for greater openness regarding the medical care provided in these situations.

In response to the figures released, Eilís Mulroy, a spokesperson for the Pro Life Campaign, described the situation as shocking. She questioned the clarity surrounding what constitutes “comfort care” and the standards of medical care afforded to these infants. Mulroy urged the government to demonstrate increased transparency and accountability regarding late-term abortions, framing the treatment of these babies as a humanitarian issue that deserves greater public scrutiny.

The HSE’s findings have sparked important discussions in Ireland regarding the policies and practices surrounding abortion and the care of newborns in challenging circumstances. As the conversation continues, advocates from various perspectives are calling for a more open dialogue on the implications of these medical procedures.