What to expect
A guide to abortion consultation and treatment.
We want you to feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible when you come for an abortion.
So our centres don’t look like hospitals – and our doctors and nurses will be there to support you at every stage.
You’ll have a consultation when you arrive – and we’ll ask you to bring a few things with you to this (you’ll find a list of these below).
During your treatment, a nurse will be there the whole time to talk things through and help you stay relaxed.
Most women recover quickly after their abortion. But if you have any concerns at all, we have a 24-hour aftercare line you can call.
What happens during your consultation.
You’ll have a consultation with one of our doctors before your abortion, either face to face or over the phone.
It’s a chance for the doctor to fully explain what’s going to happen when you have your abortion. They’ll also ask about your medical history and your reasons for wanting a termination. Any information you give will be confidential.
Your consultation is a good time to discuss contraception too, as you could get pregnant again almost immediately if you’re not protected. We can talk through different options with you and help you find something that works well for you.
What to bring
We’ll ask you to bring the following things with you to your appointment:
- Any medication you’re taking (including inhalers)
- Any information you have from your doctor about any medical conditions
- Your referral letter from your doctor or family planning clinic, if you have one
- Any notes from a previous consultation
- An extra pair of comfortable underwear
- Sanitary pads suitable for a heavy flow
- Your glasses and contact lens kit if you wear contact lenses. You may need to remove your contacts before your treatment
- Your payment method if you’re paying for your abortion.
Arranging for someone to come with you.
We recommend you bring a friend or member of your family with you when you have your abortion. They can stay with you in the waiting area, but not during your consultation or treatment. Our nurses and healthcare assistants will be there to support you.
If you’re under 16, you’ll need an adult (someone 18 or over) to accompany you home after your treatment.
Looking for more information about our abortion services?
You’ll find answers to the questions people ask most about abortions here. If you can’t find out the information you need, please call us on 8044.
After an abortion
Most women recover quickly from an abortion.
Chances are, you will too. But there are a few things you can do to make the experience easier. Avoid having sex for two weeks to minimise the risk of infection. Start using contraception straight away to protect yourself from another pregnancy. And keep an eye on your bleeding. Most women bleed for one or two weeks afterwards and it’ll feel a bit like having a period.
Above all, if you have any worries at all – whether that’s to do with your physical or emotional wellbeing – get in touch with us or your GP. We offer confidential counselling if you want to talk about how you’re feeling, and our aftercare line is open 24 hours a day.
If there’s anything worrying you after an abortion – either physically or emotionally – we’re here to help. You can call our aftercare line any time on 8044.
Speak to someone about your options
If you would like to learn more about your options, get in touch with our friendly call centre staff for a confidential, toll-free chat.