Every year approximately 180,000 women undergo abortions. Making the decision to terminate a pregnancy is both difficult and painful. Written for professionals who provide support and information to women faced with this decision, this text covers the key elements which make up good practice. Using case examples, Joanna Brien and Ida Fairbairn examine the wider issues that contribute to an unwanted pregnancy and the client's decision about termination. They provide information on how to answer questions regarding methods of abortion and the development of the foetus, and give advice on how to structure sessions to meet the particular needs of each client. Guidance is given on dealing with special situations, such as a client who is HIV positive, a victim of rape or suffering from depression. Drawing the distinction between "social" and "medical" terminations, the authors examine the various methods of screening and types of foetal abnormality that can be detected. A chapter devoted to counselling after abortions focuses on the client's experience of loss and the difficulties of coming to terms with her decision.