Girl, 15, Chooses Life Over Risky Abortion

A 15-year-old girl, over 28 weeks pregnant, has chosen to proceed with her pregnancy and deliver her child, who will subsequently be placed for adoption. This decision follows medical advice from JJ Hospital in Mumbai, indicating that terminating the pregnancy posed a severe threat to her life due to acute anemia.

The girl, who initially sought a medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) through the Bombay High Court, was found to have a dangerously low hemoglobin level of 5.6 g/dl. This condition, significantly below the normal range for pregnant women, necessitated immediate blood transfusion and cautioned against invasive procedures.

Medical boards determined that an intervention at this advanced stage of gestation carried substantial risks to both her life and long-term well-being. After thorough discussions, the girl and her family unanimously agreed to continue the pregnancy, prioritizing her health and accepting the plan for adoption.

The Bombay High Court, acknowledging the family's primary concern for the victim's health, dismissed the termination petition. They directed the girl to complete her gestation period and allowed her to choose her delivery hospital, preferably one aware of her medical condition, such as the Nashik civil hospital.