The MTP (Amendment) Act 2021 in India extended the gestational limit for termination under specific circumstances. For women with substantial fetal abnormalities, the new gestational limit allowing termination with approval of a medical board is:
- A 20 weeks
- B 24 weeks
- C Beyond 24 weeks ✓
- D The Act prohibits termination for fetal abnormality after 20 weeks regardless of the defect
Correct answer: C. Beyond 24 weeks
Explanation
The MTP Amendment Act 2021 allows termination beyond 24 weeks in cases of substantial fetal abnormalities as diagnosed by a State-level Medical Board. The general limit was extended to 24 weeks for special categories including rape survivors, minors, and women with mental illness. For substantial fetal abnormalities, there is no specific gestational upper limit — a Medical Board (at least 4 members including obstetrician, radiologist, pediatrician, and other specialists) must approve the termination. This is the most significant change from the original MTP Act 1971.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.