Dr. Caitriona Henchion:

Somebody could present to any doctor, but if she presents to me and I take the history and do an examination, and if the examination suggests either that there has been a complication or that the pregnancy has not ended, then usually what I would have to do at that stage would be to refer that woman on for evaluation in a maternity unit, where there is access to scanning. That is the next important stage, to find out what exactly is the situation. In my position, we have two clinics, so I would have two particular hospitals that I would refer women to. I would always contact the hospital to explain the woman's situation, so that she does not just arrive to an emergency room and have to explain her story to several different people. That is not necessarily universal. That is what I do. I have made those contacts to ensure that we can provide that pathway for women. I have had women who have delayed coming and when I suggested that they need to go for further evaluation in a hospital, they have specifically asked me whether they will be reported. It is a real concern not an imaginary one. People actually ask that question. They feel that even though the doctor might not want to report them, the doctor would have no choice because they have committed a crime. It is a concern that they are not presenting when they need to be seen.