Life, 2000)
             Abortion is a highly controversial issue, and a problem that 1 in 3 woman will have to deal with, at some time in their reproductive years. (Abortion Attitudes,1999)
             In cases where unplanned pregnancy occur, there are only three options available:
             „« Continuing the pregnancy and keeping the baby
             „« Continuing the pregnancy and adopting the baby out
             „« Termination of the prgnance
             The laws governing abortion differ across Australian States and Territories, creating ambiguity and uncertainty for woman attempting to obtain an abortion. Yet for those granted an abortion, there are certain steps that must be taken, to ensure that the abortion is performed conscientiously and properly for the safety of the patient. (Abortion law in Australia, 1998)
             In such, prior to the abortion the woman has blood tests for blood type, RH factor, haemoglobin, hepatitis B etc. A general examination of the patient is then carried out, to exclude other medical conditions and determine the duration of the pregnancy, determining the abortion procedure following.
             With the laws differing across each state, a recent survey in the Queenslanders Attitudes towards Abortion 1999 was compiled, stating that 62 per cent of Queenslanders agreed that abortion should be legalised. With a further 85 per cent of people believing that the decision should be left to the individual and their doctor.
             Medicare figures show that in 1998-99, at least 13 777 Queensland woman had their pregnancies terminated. (Medicare statistics do not include terminations done in public hospitals)
             There are many reasons why a woman may not wish to continue with a pregnancy. These may include:
             „« The pregnancy was unplanned because of contraception failure
             „« Health problems in the woman or foetus
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