§ Mr. StreeterTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what medical opinion her Department has(a) sought and (b) received on the safety and use of manual vacuum aspirators in refugee camps where sterilisation equipment is not available. [143356]
§ Clare ShortThe Department for International Development follows guidance produced by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on the provision and use of manual vacuum aspiration (MVA). MVA provides a safe option for the treatment of incomplete abortion, either natural or induced. In settings where sterilisation is not possible, single use disposable equipment is used to minimise risk of infection. MVA increases women's access to post abortion care and reduces the risk of complications during treatment. Failure to properly treat incomplete abortion can have fatal consequences. WHO considers MVA an essential element of care at the first referral level of all health care services.