Madrid mayor approves Vox proposal on post-abortion syndrome
Madrid's mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, has approved a Vox party proposal requiring women to be informed about the alleged post-abortion syndrome. The measure is part of a government agreement between the PP and Vox. The initiative has sparked controversy due to the lack of medical recognition for the mentioned syndrome.
In the Madrid City Council's plenary session on September 30, 2025, the government team led by José Luis Martínez-Almeida of the Popular Party (PP) approved a motion presented by Vox. The proposal, promoted by Vox councilor Enrique Ciudad, requires Madrid's health centers to inform women seeking an abortion about the potential psychological effects associated with 'post-abortion syndrome'.
According to the approved text, this information must be provided mandatorily before the procedure, aiming to 'ensure an informed decision'. Vox claims the syndrome includes symptoms like depression, anxiety, and guilt, based on studies that, however, are not endorsed by the international medical community. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Spanish gynecological associations have repeatedly debunked the existence of this syndrome as a recognized clinical entity.
Almeida justified the approval by highlighting the commitment to the investiture pact between PP and Vox, which includes measures to protect motherhood. 'This is not about restricting rights, but about providing complete information', the mayor stated during the debate. The opposition, led by Más Madrid and the PSOE, criticized the motion as a setback in reproductive rights. 'It's an ideological interference in public health', said Más Madrid spokesperson Rita Maestre.
The measure fits into a context of political tensions in Madrid, where the coalition city government has implemented several controversial Vox initiatives, such as restrictions on social aid for immigrants. Reproductive health experts warn that this obligation could deter women from accessing legal abortion services, regulated in Spain since 2010 and expanded in 2022.
Madrid City Council has not detailed how the information will be implemented or what format it will take, but it is expected to come into force in the coming months, affecting health centers under the municipality's jurisdiction.