Upto how many weeks of gestation, opinion of only one RMP is needed as per MTP ACT?
**Core Concept**
The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971 is a legislation that regulates the termination of pregnancy in India. The Act specifies the conditions under which a pregnancy can be terminated, including the gestational age limit and the requirement for multiple opinions from Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPs).
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
According to the MTP Act, for pregnancies up to 12 weeks of gestation, the opinion of only one RMP is required. This is because the Act considers pregnancies up to 12 weeks to be early and less complex, and therefore, the opinion of a single RMP is deemed sufficient. However, for pregnancies beyond 12 weeks, the opinion of two RMPs is required, as the procedure becomes more complex and carries higher risks.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option suggests that the opinion of one RMP is required up to 16 weeks of gestation, which is incorrect. The MTP Act specifies 12 weeks as the gestational age limit for a single RMP opinion.
**Option B:** This option states that the opinion of two RMPs is required up to 12 weeks of gestation, which is incorrect. The Act specifies that one RMP's opinion is sufficient for pregnancies up to 12 weeks.
**Option C:** This option suggests that the opinion of one RMP is required up to 20 weeks of gestation, which is incorrect. The MTP Act does not specify any gestational age limit beyond 12 weeks for a single RMP opinion.
**Option D:** This option is not provided.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential for medical practitioners to be aware of the MTP Act's provisions, particularly the gestational age limits and the requirement for multiple opinions. This knowledge is critical in ensuring that patients receive appropriate care and that medical practitioners comply with the law.
**Correct Answer: B. 12 weeks.**