A woman with mild learning disability consistently requests sterilisation, explains permanence and alternatives, and can weigh the consequences. Her

Question

A woman with mild learning disability consistently requests sterilisation, explains permanence and alternatives, and can weigh the consequences. Her mother refuses permission. What is the correct response?

Accepted Answer

Document decision-specific capacity and respect the woman’s decision

Answer

Seek the partner’s consent before making a gynaecology referral

Answer

Apply a best-interests test despite the woman demonstrating capacity

Answer

Treat the mother’s refusal as determinative because she is next of kin

Answer

Presume incapacity because sterilisation has permanent consequences

Capacity and sterilisation — DRCOG MCQ

A woman with mild learning disability consistently requests sterilisation, explains permanence and alternatives, and can weigh the consequences. Her mother refuses permission. What is the correct response?