Implementation and Challenges of Law 27.610: Reproductive Health and Nursing Perspective in Argentina

Abstract

Law 27,610 on Access to the Voluntary Interruption of Pregnancy (IVE) was enacted in Argentina in December 2020, representing a significant advance in reproductive rights. This regulation guaranteed the right of women and pregnant women to terminate their pregnancies up to 14 weeks of gestation in safe and free conditions. Its implementation was managed by the Directorate of Sexual and Reproductive Health, which developed protocols to ensure equitable and respectful access to the procedure.
Health personnel, especially nurses, played a key role in the care of patients, getting involved in tasks such as clinical monitoring, medication administration and emotional support. However, Conscientious Objection (CO) posed ethical challenges, since, in some cases, it was used to hinder access to legal abortion, generating tensions between the rights of professionals and patients.
Prior to the enactment of the law, clandestine abortions and associated complications represented one of the main causes of maternal mortality. The implementation of Law 27,610 sought to reverse this situation, reducing inequalities in access to reproductive health. However, cultural resistance, structural barriers and the need for more training of health personnel were highlighted as pending challenges to ensure the effectiveness of the law