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Abortion statistics
26/05/2009
Statistics published today show there has been a rise in the number of abortions carried out in Scotland last year.
Public Health Minister Shona Robison said:
"It is disappointing that there has been a rise in the number of abortions carried out in Scotland. Education has a key role to play, which is why we are working with parents, schools and NHS Health Scotland to provide additional support and information around relationships and sexual health.
"As part of this, we're developing a marketing campaign, supported by a national website, for the adult population which will focus on encouraging people to talk to their partner about their sexual health.
"We're also committed to reducing the number of repeated unintended pregnancies. The sexual health standards for boards, produced by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland, are designed to ensure women receive a safe termination, followed by a contraceptive review and counselling. They also contain a target to increase the use of Long Acting Reversible Contraception - a forthcoming NHS Health Scotland campaign will inform and encourage women to use these methods.
"We also strongly encourage the use of condoms to help protect against sexually transmitted infections, as well as preventing unintended pregnancies. "