Abstract

Fatal Fetal Anomaly (FFA) has received attention in the media due to the referendum which permitted termination of pregnancy (TOP) for FFA for the first time in Ireland. Media plays a role in informing the public on health-related matters. Therefore, the study aimed to analyse what was being presented in an Irish broadsheet and journal years preceding and up to the referendum on FFA, TOP for FFA and perinatal palliative care (PPC). A critical discourse analyses was undertaken which looks at relationships between words, their meaning and social and cultural phenomena. Themes of personification of the unborn, human rights and power and politics were embedded in the discourse, influencing the publics perceptions and views on FFA. The articles language reflected whether it took a pro-life and pro-choice view as they chose language that supported their argument. Imagery was used to potentially influence the reader and create emotional appeal. PPC and religion was suppressed within the published media with little reference to these. This study highlights the influential nature of language and significant misrepresentations in the information being delivered to the public. It suggests the need for healthcare professionals to expand their media literacy and develop these skills with their patients.