This is the 6th story of abortion during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“During the start of the pandemic I discovered I was pregnant. Me and my partner were over the moon as this was a planned pregnancy. At 10 weeks I had my second ultrasound for which I was admitted to the doctor's office alone. The results of the ultrasound were terrifying. Basically, the baby was 99% affected by a chromosomal abnormality or another condition yet to be known. I didn't ask much but decided to do an NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) at a private hospital – the state does not offer these tests, because if the results show a high risk there is no solution or option to be offered.
With the help of associations here in Malta, I made travel arrangements to the UK. Travel was banned at the time. I was questioned at London airport about the reasons for travel, making me feel like a criminal. I waited for the NIPT test results in the UK, while having already booked the termination. I wanted to be sure. I was devastated; I used to cry every day thinking about my choices. With family left behind and only my partner with me, the situation was even worse in a place closed off due to the pandemic.
I received the tests from my doctor, who confirmed a rare syndrome in the foetus. I went ahead with the termination. It took me a long time to accept it and to heal. The fact that I was made to leave my country, my family, and all I knew to get a rightful treatment was the worst part of it all. All this cost 3000 Euro as flights and all the rest are more expensive during travel bans.
I am happily pregnant again and overjoyed everything is great. Abortion is a human right! Maltese women have the right for free access to healthcare and support! To this day I cannot mention my ordeal to the anyone in hospital and I have to lie about my other pregnancy listed on my card as miscarriage! In 2021 this is utterly disgusting and unacceptable.”
- Joey