According to the MTP (Amendment) Act 2021 of India, which provision was newly introduced regarding the upper gestational limit for abortion in cases of fetal anomalies?

• A MTP can be performed up to 28 weeks for fetal anomalies by a single registered medical practitioner
• B Upper limit was increased from 20 to 24 weeks for all women, including those with fetal anomalies
• C Medical Board can authorize termination beyond 24 weeks for substantial fetal anomalies, without an upper gestational limit ✓
• D Fetal anomaly-based termination is still restricted to 20 weeks under the amended act

Explanation

The MTP Amendment Act 2021 introduced the Medical Board provision: a state-level Medical Board can authorize termination of pregnancy at any gestational age (no upper limit) in cases where substantial fetal anomalies are diagnosed. Previously, termination beyond 20 weeks required court orders for fetal anomalies. The amendment also extended the upper limit from 20 to 24 weeks for specific categories (survivors of sexual assault, minors, women with disabilities, change in marital status). The 24-week limit requires opinion of two RMPs. This is distinct from the Medical Board pathway which applies specifically to diagnosed fetal anomalies.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.