[Framework conditions for informed decision-making and interdisciplinary collaboration in abortion care-perspectives of counselling professionals].

BACKGROUND

Informed and self-determined decisions are a central element of human-rights-compliant abortion care. This article examines the framework conditions for informed, self-determined decisions and interdisciplinary cooperation from the perspectives of counsellors from pregnancy counselling centres in Germany. The data are based on a qualitative study conducted as part of a sub-project on psychosocial care within the joint project "Experiences and life situations of women with unwanted pregnancies-counselling and care services".

METHODS

In the fourth quarter of 2022, six guided focus group interviews were conducted with 25 professionals at four locations and analysed using content-structuring analysis.

RESULTS

Informed decisions are understood as a relational process that offers guidance beyond the transfer of knowledge. Information barriers, a lack of language mediation and social inequalities complicate the process, especially for migrants and people facing multiple challenges. Interdisciplinary collaboration reveals asymmetries between psychosocial and medical care. Collaborations are often dependent on individuals, structurally insecure and in need of improvement.

DISCUSSION: Informed and self-determined decisions can be supported by improved interdisciplinary networking, accessible and reliable information services, and institutionalised language mediation. The reduction of structural inequalities and the normalisation of abortion are described as central issues, and the criminal law framework and compulsory counselling are reflected upon critically in some cases. Pregnancy counselling centres play a key role in this process.