Core Legislations in Obs & Gynae (India)

Reproductive Rights & Abortion
Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 (Amended 2021)

• Governs legal abortion in India
• Allows abortion up to:
  • 20 weeks (general)
  • 24 weeks (special categories like rape survivors)
• Requires:
  • 1 doctor opinion (<20 weeks)
  • 2 doctors (20–24 weeks)
• Ensures confidentiality of patient identity

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Prevention of Sex Selection
Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994

• • Prohibits sex determination & sex selection
  • Regulates ultrasound and genetic testing centers
  • Mandatory registration of clinics
  • Strong penalties for violations

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Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021

• Regulates IVF clinics, sperm banks
• Defines eligibility for ART (couples, single women)
• Ensures ethical practices in infertility treatment

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Surrogacy Regulation
Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021

• Allows only altruistic surrogacy
• Bans commercial surrogacy
• Protects surrogate mothers and child rights

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Clinical Practice Regulation
Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010

• Mandatory registration of hospitals/clinics
• Standard treatment guidelines
• Applies to both public & private facilities

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Women Protection Laws (Indirectly relevant to Obs-Gyn)
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

• Covers physical, emotional, sexual abuse
• Important in:
  • Pregnancy abuse
  • Marital rape-related care

• Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (Amended 2017)
  • 26 weeks maternity leave
  • Workplace protections

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